article · International Journal of Infectious Diseases
A cross-sectional investigation across eight districts in Tanzania measured the serological presence and risk factors of chikungunya, dengue, and Zika viruses. Testing of blood samples from 1,818 participants using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays detected specific immunoglobulin G antibodies. Overall seroprevalence was recorded at 28.0 percent for chikungunya, 16.1 percent for dengue, and 6.8 percent for Zika. Exposure varied widely across geographical settings, with the highest burden for chikungunya observed in Buhigwe, dengue in Kinondoni, and Zika in Ukerewe and Mvomero. Statistical analysis revealed that older age and frequent mosquito bites increased the likelihood of exposure to chikungunya and dengue. Additionally, dengue exposure was linked to nearby stagnant water or piped water supplies, while visiting mines correlated with Zika exposure, and fever was tied to chikungunya. The findings demonstrate active viral transmission across diverse ecological zones, highlighting a need for stronger disease control.
Mosquito-borne viral infections such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika pose persistent public health risks across varied environments in Tanzania. Identifying specific geographical hotspots and everyday risk factors, such as domestic water storage and mining activities, allows public health authorities to focus targeted vector management programmes and preventative measures where local populations are most vulnerable.
This early-stage epidemiological research provides baseline surveillance data that could inform public health agencies and diagnostic manufacturers. While it does not deliver a commercial product, the geographical and risk factor insights could guide the deployment of diagnostic screening kits, targeted vector-control products, and community water management interventions in high-exposure zones.
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BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of chikungunya (CHIKV), dengue (DENV), and Zika (ZIKV) viruses in Tanzania. METHODS: The study covered the districts of Buhigwe, Kalambo, Kilindi, Kinondoni, Kondoa, Kyela, Mvomero, and Ukerewe in Tanzania. Blood samples were collected from individuals recruited from households and healthcare facilities. An ELISA was used to screen for immunoglobulin G antibodies against CHIKV, DENV, and ZIKV. RESULTS: A total of 1818 participants (median age 34 years) were recruited. The overall CHIKV, DENV, and ZIKV seroprevalence rates were 28.0%, 16.1%, and 6.8%, respectively. CHIKV prevalence was highest in Buhigwe (46.8%), DENV in Kinondoni (43.8%), and ZIKV in Ukerewe (10.6%) and Mvomero (10.6%). Increasing age and frequent mosquito bites were significantly associated with CHIKV and DENV seropositivity (P < 0.05). Having piped water or the presence of stagnant water around the home (P < 0.01) were associated with higher odds of DENV seropositivity. Fever was significantly associated with increased odds of CHIKV seropositivity (P < 0.001). Visiting mines had higher odds of ZIKV seropositivity (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that DENV, CHIKV, and ZIKV are circulating in diverse ecological zones of Tanzania. There is a need to strengthen the control of mosquito-borne viral diseases in Tanzania.
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DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.08.040
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