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Updated: May 29, 2026
07:23
Detection of Infectious Virus from Field-collected Mosquitoes by Vero Cell Culture Assay
Published on: June 9, 2011
Dengue virus serotypes in Jamaica, 2003-2007
M G Brown1, R A Salas, I E Vickers
1Department of Microbiology, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica. michelle.brown@uwimona.edu.jm
The West Indian Medical Journal
|September 28, 2011
Summary
Dengue virus (DENV) infection is a growing global health concern. This study identified all four DENV serotypes in Jamaica, emphasizing the need for enhanced laboratory surveillance and vector control to combat increasing dengue prevalence and severity.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Dengue virus (DENV) infection is globally increasing in prevalence and severity.
- Factors influencing dengue severity include immune response, viral, and host genetic elements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine DENV serotypes in patients with suspected dengue in Jamaica.
- To assess DENV RNA and antibody prevalence during and after acute illness.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing (ELISA) and DENV RNA detection (RT-PCR) were performed on 770 serum samples.
- Samples were collected from patients presenting during or after the acute phase of illness between 2003-2007.
- DENV RNA was also tested in cell culture supernatants inoculated with acute phase serum.
Main Results:
- All four DENV serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, DENV-4) were identified over the five-year study period.
- DENV RNA was detected in 2.6% of serum samples, with higher detection rates in acute phase samples and cell cultures.
- DENV-1, 2, and 4 were present in 2007, with DENV-2 and DENV-4 implicated in the 2007-2008 Jamaican dengue outbreak.
Conclusions:
- Dengue and severe dengue pose an increasing threat to Jamaica.
- Enhanced laboratory surveillance and stringent vector control measures are crucial for prevention.
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