Outbreak investigation and containment measures of dengue fever in rural Wardha: A field epidemiological study

Abstract

Background: Dengue is a common vector-borne disease in countries like India, where it occurs in specific pockets including many in Maharashtra. During July–August 2018, an outbreak of dengue was suspected in a village of Wardha district, following an increase in the number of fever cases from the village, which demanded an urgent outbreak investigation to be carried out before it progressed into an epidemic/larger outbreak. Objectives: The aim of this study was to find out more cases, source of infection and to recommend necessary actions to control the dengue outbreak. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional epidemiological study, where we used pre-tested, pre-designed epidemiological case sheets obtained from Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP). A case definition was proposed before beginning the investigation. Line listing, collection of blood samples, distribution of paracetamol tablets to fever cases, and making a spot map were some of the important steps carried out during the investigation. Results: Out of a total of 64 suspected fever cases, 36 cases fulfilled the case definition of dengue, set for the purpose of outbreak investigation. Twenty-three of them got admitted in different hospitals among whom two of them died. Apart from that, four of them were found to be positive for both dengue IgM and NS1 antigen in their blood samples. It was age group of 21–30 years which was mostly affected. Compared to males, the female population suffered more from the illness. House, container, and Breteau index were found to be 0.26, 0.09, and 0.32, respectively. Conclusion: Following the investigation, a detailed report was made, which was shared with the district health authority. The report also contained recommendations for necessary actions to be taken to control this outbreak and to further prevent such outbreaks in future.