Epidemiological and Clinical Aspects of Dengue: A Study at the Renaissance University Hospital Centre in N'Djamena, Chad

Introduction: Dengue is a re-emerging viral zoonosis caused by an RNA virus of the family Flaviviridae of the genus Flavivirus, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes of the genus Aedes. These mosquitoes are often found in tropical and subtropical regions. Cases are most commonly asymptomatic or result in mild febrile illness; however, classic dengue fever can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is a severe form characterised by high fever, severe bleeding, organ impairment and/or a potentially rapid and significant drop in blood pressure. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological, clinical and evolutionary aspects of Dengue at the Renaissance University Hospital Centre in N'Djamena, Chad. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of dengue data collection for 12 months at the Renaissance University Hospital Centre from 1st May, 2023 to 30th April, 2024. All patients hospitalised during the study period were included. Epidemiological, clinical and evolutionary aspects were studied. Data was analysed using SPSS V21.0. Results: During the study period, out of the 213 patients that were hospitalised, 42 (19.7%) patients were diagnosed with Dengue. Males were predominant by 81% (n=34) with a sex ratio of 4.2. The age range 31 to 40 years was represented in 31% (n=13) of patients. The mean age was 40 ±15 years, with an age range of 24 to 61 years. Merchants were the most represented group with 31% (n=13) of patients. Fever was the most common symptom in 95.2% (n=40) of patients, while complications were dominated by dehydration in 38.1% (n=16) of patients. There were 9.5% (n=4) patient mortality. Conclusion: Dengue is a re-emerging viral zoonosis that occurs particularly in urban and rural communities but also in the wealthier districts of N'Djamena. However, dengue increases with urbanisation because it creates conditions that are ideal for transmission. While most infections are mild, some can develop into severe, potentially fatal forms. This poses a problem in diagnosing dengue fever.