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Outbreak of febrile illness due to dengue virus type 3 in Calcutta during 1983
K K Mukherjee1, S K Chakravarti, P N Dey
1Department of Virology, School of Tropical Medicine, Calcutta, India.
Abstract:
An epidemic of dengue fever broke out in Calcutta between July and August 1983. Persons of all age groups were affected with a preponderance of young adults. Haemorrhagic manifestations and shock were not observed. Virus was isolated from 4 acute phase sera and identified as dengue type 3 (DEN-3), the first isolation of DEN-3 virus in Calcutta. Serotesting with 9 paired blood samples established dengue infection in 7 and a flavivirus group reaction in 2. Examination of 36 single sera revealed presumptive dengue infection in 15 and a flavivirus group reaction in 17, while the remaining 4 were negative to all flavivirus antigens.
Insights
A dengue fever epidemic occurred in Calcutta in 1983, primarily affecting young adults. Dengue type 3 virus was identified, marking the first isolation in the city, with no severe hemorrhagic cases reported.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Dengue fever poses a significant public health challenge globally.
- Understanding local dengue virus strains and transmission patterns is crucial for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an outbreak of dengue fever in Calcutta during July-August 1983.
- To identify the dengue virus serotype responsible for the epidemic and assess its clinical manifestations.
Main Methods:
- Virus isolation and identification from acute phase sera.
- Serological testing using paired and single serum samples against flavivirus antigens.
Main Results:
- Dengue type 3 (DEN-3) virus was isolated, representing the first documented isolation of DEN-3 in Calcutta.
- Serological tests confirmed dengue infection in a significant proportion of individuals, with some showing flavivirus group reactions.
- The outbreak affected all age groups, with a higher incidence among young adults. Notably, hemorrhagic manifestations and shock were absent.
Conclusions:
- The 1983 Calcutta dengue fever epidemic was caused by dengue type 3 virus.
- The findings highlight the emergence of DEN-3 in Calcutta and underscore the need for ongoing surveillance and vector control measures.