O-60 Epidemiological Trends of Dengue and Related Arboviruses in the Caribbean Region: A Comparative Analysis from 2018 to 2024

Methods: This six-year epidemiological study (April 2018–July 2024) at the CARPHA Medical Microbiology Laboratory involved 4,621 clinical samples from arboviral outbreaks. Samples collected within five days of symptom onset were tested using the CDC’s Trioplex real-time RT-PCR assay for DENV, CHIKV, and ZIKV, while those collected after five days were analyzed for NS1, IgM, or IgG antibodies using ELISA kits (Focus Diagnostics and EUROIMMUN). Viral RNA was extracted using manual and automated systems adhering to manufacturer protocols. Laboratory confirmation was conducted across diverse patient demographics.

Results: This study analyzed 4,587 samples, confirming dengue in 34.7%, primarily via PCR, with serotype-3 most prevalent (765 cases) overall; amongst males and age group 1-10 yrs. Dengue exhibited seasonal peaks (August– November), with notable surges in 2023–2024. Chikungunya (0.2%) and Zika (0.1%) were rare. Fever was the most common symptom across all dengue serotypes, with serotype-specific variations such as pain, vomiting, and chills. Serological trends revealed high dengue activity in 2019, 2020, and 2023, with a resurgence in 2024. Statistical analyses indicated significant variations in serotype distribution by age and gender.

Conclusion: The study highlights dengue’s substantial public health burden in the Caribbean, with serotype-3 predominating and seasonal peaks coinciding with the rainy season. Rare chikungunya and zika cases underscore limited transmissibility. Elevated arboviral activity in 2023–2024 emphasizes the need for enhanced vector control, entomological surveillance, and outbreak preparedness to mitigate risks effectively.