ABSTRACT
Background India is one of the countries in the World Health Organization South-East Asia Region that regularly reports outbreaks of dengue fever (DF)/dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). As effective control and preventive programmes depend upon improved surveillance data, this study was carried out to report the seroprevalence of dengue virus infection in an area around Jamnagar city, Western India. Methods The laboratory records of clinically suspected dengue patients from July 2008 to June 2011 were analysed retrospectively for the results of immunoglobulin M (IgM) anti-dengue antibodies, tested by dengue monoclonal antibody (IgM) capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (MAC ELISA). Variations in disease incidence by sex, age group and season were assessed. Results A total of 903 serum samples were tested, of which 253 were positive. The majority were males (72%) and in the age group of 16–30 years. The incidence of dengue peaked in October and slowly tapered by December. Conclusion Dengue cases were higher during September to December, in the post-monsoon season. This observation is useful for planning special preventive strategies. The study draws attention to the susceptibility of the male, young adult age group.
ABSTRACT
Background & objectives: Developing country like India shows high prevalence of hepatitis C on account of lack of universal precautions while treating patients. This kind of transmission is seen more in cases of Thalesemias on regular blood transfusion, with renal diseases on haemodialysis and co-infection with hepatitis B along with patients admitted in various wards for treatment. Study was conducted with the objective to find out prevalence of HCV infection in patients with hepatitis B, Thalesemias, patients undergoing haemodialysis, patients admitted in hospital for other diseases who are hepatitis B negative, Ante-natal cases and voluntary healthy blood donors. Methods: Blood was collected of 1040 persons from various groups with their consent. All the sera were tested for anti HCV antibody by ELISA and Signal HCV test. Results: Total twelve participants were found positive for HCV infection, majority were belonged to Thalesemic group and rest of the participants belonged to voluntary healthy blood donor group, patients of hepatitis B and patients on haemodialysis. Interpretation & conclusion: those who are at risk of getting Hepatitis C should undergo for HCV testing on regular interval.