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An epidemic of type 3 dengue on Niue Island
1Fiji School of Medicine, Suva.
Abstract:
An epidemic of dengue fever type 3 occurred on the island of Niue late in 1985 and during the first quarter of 1986. Just over 18% of the population reported for medical attention, the disease predominantly affecting teenagers and young adults, with equal sex distribution. The epidemic was of the classical dengue syndrome and there were no deaths. There were some unusual features. The magnitude of antibody rise was unusually high in many of those with no preexisting antibody. Despite the large proportion of the population with preexisting dengue type 2 antibodies, no cases of dengue haemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome were observed, confirming the observations made in many other epidemics that these serious complications do not always follow in sequential epidemics caused by two different types. A high level of awareness, combined public health measures and active community involvement helped to control the epidemic early.
Insights
An outbreak of dengue type 3 in Niue affected mostly young adults, with no deaths. Pre-existing dengue type 2 antibodies did not lead to severe dengue hemorrhagic fever, highlighting effective public health responses.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- An epidemic of dengue fever type 3 (DENV-3) occurred in Niue from late 1985 to early 1986.
- The disease primarily impacted teenagers and young adults, with an equal distribution between sexes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical and epidemiological features of the DENV-3 epidemic in Niue.
- To investigate the role of pre-existing dengue type 2 antibodies in the absence of severe dengue complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of medical records and population data.
- Serological assessment of antibody responses.
Main Results:
- Over 18% of the population sought medical attention for classical dengue syndrome; no fatalities were reported.
- Unusually high antibody titers were observed in individuals without prior dengue antibodies.
- Despite a high prevalence of dengue type 2 antibodies, no cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome were documented.
Conclusions:
- The epidemic was characterized by classical dengue symptoms without severe outcomes.
- Sequential dengue type 3 infection did not result in severe dengue manifestations, even with pre-existing dengue type 2 antibodies.
- Community engagement and public health interventions were crucial in controlling the outbreak.