Seroprevalence of dengue virus infection in Aseer and Jizan regions, Southwestern Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: The objectives were to measure seroprevalence of dengue virus (DENV) infection in Southwestern regions of Saudi Arabia and the potential risk factors.

Methods: Two areas in Jizan region and four areas in Aseer region were randomly selected. A random sample of patients attending the outpatients' clinics of the relevant hospitals was included. Blood samples were taken and tested for DENV-specific IgG antibodies.

Results: The study included 965 persons. A seroprevalence of 31.7 % (306/965) for DENV specific IgG was found. In logistic regression analysis, the following significant risk factors were identified: age ≥20 years, being male, lack of electricity and having water basins in the house.

Conclusion: The study reported the first and the largest seroprevalence study of DENV infection in south-western Saudi Arabia. The relatively high seroprevalence of DENV infection in the study area indicates that it is endemic in the region. Strong and effective health education programs in the study region will help to control DENV infection and public should be discouraged from having indoor water basins. Furthermore, the public should be encouraged to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Keywords: Dengue virus infection; Southwestern Saudi Arabia.