Molecular epidemiology of dengue virus circulating during 2021 outbreak in Pakistan

Abstract

Aim: The current study aimed to identify prevalent dengue serotypes during a major outbreak in 2021 in Pakistan. Materials & methods: From September-November 2021, 373 serum samples from different provinces were tested by RT-PCR for serotype identification, followed by partial sequence analysis of selected dengue-positive samples. Results: Out of 373 samples, 273 (73%) were positive for dengue virus infection with male predominance (61.9%). Complete predominance of DENV-2 serotype (99%) and a single case of DENV-1 was observed. Sequencing data revealed the presence of a cosmopolitan genotype within the DENV-2 Pakistani isolates. Conclusion: This study highlights the persistent predominance of DENV-2 during the 2021 outbreak, suggesting a need to improve surveillance strategies and vector breeding control programs in Pakistan.