Dengue and Scrub Typhus Co-infection at a Tertiary Care Centre in Nepal: A Case Series in Pediatric Patients

This case series highlights four pediatric patients with coinfection of dengue fever and scrub typhus, presenting at Patan Hospital. Dengue fever is caused by flavivirus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, and scrub typhus is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi transmitted by Leptotrombidium mites, which share overlapping symptoms such as fever, headache, and abdominal pain, complicating the diagnosis. The cases were from different geographical regions of Nepal with varied presentation: from febrile illness to severe manifestations like meningoencephalitis and raised intracranial pressure. Two patients presented with hepatosplenomegaly, one with severe rash, and another with pneumonia-like symptoms. Laboratory findings confirmed coinfection, and management included IV antibiotics, antipyretics, and supportive management. Complications such as thrombocytopenia, transaminitis, and allergic reactions required interventions. This case series highlights the importance of early suspicion and treatment of coinfection to reduce prolonged hospitalization and prevent end-organ dysfunction, and mortality, especially in endemic regions.