Impact of Dengue Virus Infection on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Sivagangai District, Tamil Nadu, India

Background: A healthy woman gives birth to a healthy adolescent, and a family's well-being often depends on the health of the younger generation. However, considerable uncertainty remains in identifying the causes of negative pregnancy outcomes. Previous studies suggest various contributing factors, including imbalanced diet, uterine weakness, alcohol use, infections during pregnancy, physical trauma, inadequate prenatal care, and congenital anomalies. Aim: This study aimed to explore the potential causes of negative pregnancy outcomes, with a specific focus on the impact of dengue virus infection in pregnant women. Methods: A total of 1,753 pregnant women were interviewed face-to-face in the local language using standard procedures. Clinical data and pregnancy outcomes-such as miscarriage, abortion, low birth weight, and preterm birth-were collected. Among the participants, 1,019 were from rural areas and 734 from urban areas. Findings: Of the total participants, 7.87% experienced negative pregnancy outcomes. These included 31 cases of preterm birth, 14 stillbirths, 41 abortions, and 52 low birth weight deliveries. A total of 1,615 women had normal live births. Notably, 6 women were identified with dengue infection during pregnancy. Among them, outcomes included 3 preterm births, 1 stillbirth, and 2 low birth weight deliveries. Conclusion: The study identifies dengue virus infection as a significant contributor to negative pregnancy outcomes. Dengue, transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and caused by DENV of the Flavivirus family, may lead to placental inflammation, trophoblast apoptosis, and elevated cytokine and chemokine production during pregnancy. These findings highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies to protect maternal and fetal health in dengue-endemic regions.