Correlation of measles and dengue infection in Kassala, Eastern Sudan

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Measles outbreaks pose significant public health challenges, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• Co-infections with other viral diseases can complicate clinical presentation and outcomes.
• Understanding the epidemiology of measles and potential co-infections is crucial for effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate suspected measles cases in Eastern Sudan.
• To determine the prevalence of measles and dengue IgM antibodies, and co-infection.
• To analyze clinical manifestations and risk factors associated with measles and dengue co-infection.

Main Methods:

• Clinical case definitions from the World Health Organization were used.
• 275 suspected measles cases were enrolled from January-March 2012.
• IgM antibodies for measles and dengue were tested in 60 patient samples.

Main Results:

• Measles antibodies detected in 20% of samples, dengue in 11.7%, and co-infection in 16.7%.
• Co-infected cases showed a higher proportion of males, severe illness, and mortality.
• No significant differences in age, residence, occupation, or vaccination status were observed between groups.

Conclusions:

• Measles and dengue co-infection is a concern in Eastern Sudan.
• Co-infection is associated with increased severity and mortality, particularly in males.
• Further research and targeted public health interventions are warranted.