Prevalence of dengue virus among febrile patients in urban setting of Bamako, Mali

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Résumé

Objectives: We aimed to determine the prevalence of dengue among febrile patients in Bamako and explore its seasonal and demographic variations. Methods: We conducted cross-sectional surveys in July 2021 and February 2022 among febrile patients seeking care at four community health centers in Bamako. Febrile patients were enrolled, and blood samples were tested for dengue using rapid diagnostic tests and polymerase chain reaction. Results: A total of 325 patients were enrolled (175 in July and 150 in February). The overall prevalence of dengue in communes V and VI of Bamako was 16.9%. Females were more represented (66.2%). The median age of the participants was 20 years (interquartile range: 8-30). Adult age (≥18 years) was the only factor significantly associated with an increased risk of dengue infection (odds ratio = 3.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.1-9.4). Conclusions: The prevalence of dengue (16.9%) in communes V and VI suggests that dengue is endemic in Bamako, with a predominance among young adults and females. Adult age was identified as the only significant factor associated with increased risk. Further studies are needed for more insight into the dynamics of dengue transmission and to guide public health actions, particularly those targeting the adult population, to reduce dengue transmission in Bamako.

Mots-clés

Dengue fever, Dengue virus, Transmission (telecommunications), Public health, Epidemiology, Young adult, Risk factor, Incidence (geometry)