Clinical Characteristics, Associated Factors, Treatment Practices, and Outcomes of Dengue Fever among Adult Acute Febrile Illness Cases in Las’anod, Sool Region, Somalia: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background Dengue fever is an emerging public health concern in Somalia, but evidence on its clinical presentation, serological test patterns, associated factors, treatment practices, and outcomes among adult acute febrile illness cases remains limited. This study assessed dengue fever among adult acute febrile illness cases in Las’anod, Sool Region, Somalia. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 260 adult patients with acute febrile illness assessed for dengue fever at Las’anod General Hospital, Manhal Hospital, and Somali Higher Hospital. Data were collected using a standardized data extraction checklist from patient records, clinical evaluation forms, and laboratory records. Dengue positivity was determined using serology test results. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, binary logistic regression, and multivariable logistic regression were used for analysis. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were reported, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Of the 260 participants, 78 (30.0%) tested positive for dengue serology and 182 (70.0%) tested negative. Among positive cases, 61 (23.5%) were IgM positive only, and 17 (6.5%) were positive for both IgM and NS1. Fever was the most common symptom, reported by 157 (60.38%) participants. Most participants were not admitted to hospital, 229 (88.08%), and 248 (95.38%) survived, while 12 (4.62%) deaths were recorded. In multivariable analysis, age 25–35 years, monthly household income, previous dengue diagnosis, knowledge level, and indoor water storage were significantly associated with dengue positivity. Conclusions Dengue fever was a substantial contributor to acute febrile illness among adults in Las’anod. Strengthening dengue diagnosis, community awareness, safe water storage practices, vector control, and standardized clinical management may improve detection, prevention, and outcomes in resource-limited settings.