SUMMARY

Dengue is a mosquito borne viral infection that causes flu-like illness which can develop into a

potentially lethal complication such as dengue haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome.

Recently global incidence of dengue has grown dramatically putting half of the population at

risk. This study aimed at determining the prevalence of dengue infection, identifying most at risk

population and other factors for risk among the study population.

A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among apparently healthy individuals at Karu

LGA, Nasarawa State. Questionnaires were administered and samples obtained and tested using

ELISA IgG technique. Univariate/bivariate analysis was conducted on the using Epi-info version

7.1.4 and statistical significance determined at P < 0.05.

A total of 354 blood samples were collected. Antibodies against dengue virus IgG was found in

17 (4.8%). A total of 168 females (47.5%) were recruited, 8 (4.8%) of whom were positive.

Among 186 (52.5%) males, 9 (4.8%) were positive. Age group with highest sero-prevalence was

>45years, 7 (22.6%). Occupation with the highest number of sero-prevalence was farmers with 8

(18.6%), followed by Civil servant with 2 (11.1%) positives. Those in private sector had 1

(9.0%), the least was in business men with 3 (3.8%). Level of education with the highest number

of positive was found among those with informal education with 5 (26.3%), those with tertiary

level of education had the least seroprevalence with 2 (6.1%).

There was high seroprevalence of dengue among the study population. Those > 50 years and

farmers were identified as being at a higher risk and also keeping waste bin in the house.

Therefore, it is recommended to improved surveillance for dengue and inclusion of dengue

testing in health facilities for febrile illnesses.

Keywords: Dengue, apparently healthy individuals, seroprevalence, Nasarawa State.

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1    Background Information