Malaria and Dengue Co-infection: A Comprehensive Study in Peshawar, Pakistan

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Malaria and dengue are significant mosquito-borne diseases prevalent in tropical and subtropical climates.
• Co-infections with malaria and dengue are increasingly reported globally.
• Peshawar faces a notable burden of these vector-borne diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency and patterns of malaria-dengue co-infections in Peshawar.
• To identify risk factors associated with these co-infections.
• To inform public health strategies for disease control.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2023.
• 322 febrile patients were evaluated using dengue serological tests and malarial parasite microscopy.
• Clinical and demographic data were collected via questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Malaria-dengue co-infection was found in 72 (22.4%) of 322 patients.
• Co-infections were more prevalent in urban areas (26.0%) compared to rural areas (13.2%).
• Age and educational status were identified as significant risk factors; co-infected patients experienced longer hospital stays and higher mortality.

Conclusions:

• Malaria-dengue co-infection is common in Peshawar, particularly in urban settings and during monsoon seasons.
• Routine screening for both diseases in febrile patients from endemic areas is crucial.
• Targeted surveillance and vector control in urban areas are recommended.