Dengue Virus

 
 

Dengue (DENV), commonly called breakbone fever is one of the most widespread mosquito-borne viral diseases affecting humans today and has emerged as a major public health problem, particularly in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Over 2.5 billion people are at risk, resulting in an estimated 400 million infections and 500,000 hospitalized cases globally each year.

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Recent data indicate that by age 10, roughly 85% of children in Managua, Nicaragua have been infected with one or more of the four dengue virus serotypes, and up to one in ten children is infected with dengue virus each year.

Several studies managed locally by SSI Nicaragua, incorporated in 2004 as the Instituto de Ciencias Sostenibles, are helping answer critical questions on dengue epidemiology, immune correlates of protection, and alternative vector control strategies.

PEDIATRIC DENGUE COHORT STUDY

The longest continuous dengue study in existence, consists of a prospective cohort of 3,500 children ages 2-14 years old. Participants are followed closely for any signs of illnesses, and children who present with fever are screened for symptoms of dengue and tested at the National Virology Laboratory of the Ministry of Health. This study, where individuals are monitored for an extensive period of time, allows us to better investigate the epidemiological, virological and immunological determinants of repeat dengue virus infections.

NATIONAL PEDIATRIC REFERENCE HOSPITAL STUDY

This study focuses on the clinical, immunological and viral risk factors for severe dengue infection. Children suspected of dengue, between 6 months-14 years of age are enrolled, given medical care and followed-up for the entirety of the disease’s duration.