Detection of anti dengue IgM antibodies in clinically suspected dengue cases at a tertiary care hospital, Mumbai

Introduction: Dengue is an emerging mosquito borne viral infection affecting tropical and subtropical countries. It can lead to life threatening complications like dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. In India, the epidemiology of dengue virus infection is very complex and ever changing. The infection has expanded over the last few decades to all regions of the country. Aims and Objectives: The present study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of dengue virus infection among patients attending a tertiary care hospital and to study demographic features and seasonal variation of positive cases. Materials and Method: Patients attending the outpatient and inpatient departments with signs and symptoms suggestive of dengue infection over a period of 7 months were included in the study. IgM antibody against dengue virus was detected by anti dengue IgM antibody capture enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Amongst 7280 clinically suspected cases of dengue virus infection, 561 were positive for anti-dengue IgM antibodies. Infection was predominant in the age group of 15-30 years (46.7%) and 63.6% of the male population was affected. Seasonal trend showed a peak level of infection in the month of October (post-monsoon). Conclusion: Epidemiological surveillance of dengue infection is necessary to monitor the spread of dengue virus and for implementation of effective prevention and control strategies. Keywords: Dengue, Seroprevalence, IgM antibody, ELISA