Metrics details. Dengue fever is a significant global public health concern. However, its epidemiology in Somaliland remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to provide comprehensive data on the clinical presentation, demographic characteristics, and serological patterns of dengue fever in Somaliland.
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1, suspected dengue cases from public hospital laboratories in Somaliland between January and September Demographic data, clinical symptoms, and results of rapid diagnostic tests for dengue NS1 antigen and IgM antibodies were analyzed. Of the 1, suspected cases, The majority of the patients were male Most cases were from urban areas Common symptoms included fever, vomiting, nausea Serological testing revealed The peak incidence was observed in June.
Only 8. Among these 8 cases This study provides initial insights into the epidemiology of dengue in Somaliland, though further research is needed to establish robust baseline data, highlighting its prevalence, particularly in urban adults. These preliminary findings suggest a potential need for enhanced surveillance and public health measures, pending confirmation from larger studies to address the emerging arboviral diseases in this region.
Peer Review reports. Dengue virus DENV presents a significant global health challenge, with an estimated million infections occurring annually [ 1 , 2 ]. This arbovirus, primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causes dengue fever, a febrile illness that can progress to severe manifestations such as dengue hemorrhagic fever DHF and dengue shock syndrome DSS [ 3 , 4 ]. The global burden of dengue has been increasing, with Africa emerging as a region of growing importance despite limited data on seroprevalence [ 5 ].
Factors such as urbanization, climate change, and population mobility have contributed to the spread of dengue, necessitating a better understanding of its prevalence and associated risk factors in understudied areas [ 6 , 7 ]. In Somaliland, the epidemiology of dengue fever remains poorly characterized, with significant gaps in the knowledge regarding its age-specific incidence, sex distribution, and seasonal variation.
