EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STATUS OF DENGUE FEVER IN DERA ISMAIL KHAN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background: Dengue fever, induced by the dengue virus, is a tropical ailment that ranks among the most lethal vector-borne illnesses. The hot and humid summers in Pakistan facilitate the proliferation of vectors that are responsible for transmitting viral and parasitic diseases. In spite of the proactive strategies implemented by the appropriate authorities, Pakistan has been grappling with an escalating dengue crisis for the last twenty years. DHF represents a serious manifestation of dengue infection, associated with considerable morbidity and mortality rates. Timely recognition of severe dengue infections can decrease morbidity and mortality rates.

Methodology: The retrospective study was carried out from May to October during the years 2019 to 2023. The primary aim of this research is to assess issues associated with dengue virus fever infection in the Dera Ismail Khan district. The dengue patient arrived at MMMT Hospital in Dera Ismail Khan from a different locality inside D.I. Khan. The patient was placed in an entirely distinct ward, with full consideration given to dengue patients by the hospital personnel. The patients with reservations were assessed utilizing the DENV method. A total of 488 patients tested positive for the dengue virus, with a higher proportion of males at 443 (90.77%) compared to females at 45 (9.22%), indicating a lower impact on the latter group. The incidence of DENV in the age group of 16 to 35 years was 76.84%. The current study indicates that dengue fever infection peaked in October (45%) as a result of the post-monsoon rainy season. Moreover, 43% of patients exhibited platelet counts over 100,000 per cubic millimeter, which may pose significant health risks.

Conclusion: According to the current study Dera Ismail Khan district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP, Pakistan, is at significant risk of disease and mortality due to dengue fever.  The most affected age range is 16 to 35 years. Males are more afflicted than females, with a 2:1 ratio among the entire dengue fever infected population.  Fever and myalgia are the most prevalent symptoms among all documented cases of dengue infection. Failure to adhere to preventative measures against the dengue epidemic may lead to a concerning trajectory in the future.  Second, in order to prevent dengue outbreaks in the future, the administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had to have improved plans for preventing dengue infection in neighboring districts and provincial towns.