First introduction of dengue virus type 3 in Niger, 2022

Adamou Lagare1, Martin Faye2, Gbaguidi Fintan3

  • 1Centre de Recherche Médicale et Sanitaire (CERMES), 634 Bd de la Nation, Niamey, YN034, Niger.

IJID Regions
|May 11, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness, poses a significant global health threat. This study reports the first confirmed dengue virus case in Niger, highlighting a critical knowledge gap in West Africa.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Entomology
  • Virology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Dengue virus (DENV) is a major mosquito-borne viral disease, endemic in tropical and subtropical regions.
  • Four DENV serotypes (DENV-1 to -4) cause significant global morbidity and mortality, affecting billions.
  • DENV transmission is prevalent in West Africa, yet data on its distribution in Niger is scarce.

Observation:

  • This study investigated the presence and prevalence of dengue virus in Niger.
  • The research involved laboratory confirmation of dengue cases.

Findings:

  • The first laboratory-confirmed case of dengue fever in Niger is reported.
  • This finding establishes the presence of dengue virus in Niger.

Implications:

  • This discovery underscores the need for enhanced surveillance and control strategies for dengue in Niger.
  • Further research is crucial to understand DENV epidemiology and distribution in the region.
  • Public health interventions may be required to mitigate potential outbreaks in Niger.

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