Dengue and Chikungunya virus diseases are mosquito-borne tropical diseases caused by the Dengue and Chikungunya viruses respectively. Global annual estimated cases have appreciated significantly in the last decade. In Ghana, patients who present with symptoms consistent with these infections are screened for Yellow Fever (YF) virus, without investigating for other possible causative viruses. Anecdotal reports indicate that more than 20% of fatal suspected YF cases were not conclusively established. This, in part, could be attributed to the lack of diagnostic capacity for Dengue, Chikungunya, and other endemic Arboviruses.

A prospective 5-year study based in selected health facilities across the country. Consecutive suspected cases presenting at the respective health facility with clinical symptoms (based on case definition) be recruited using a case investigation form (CIF) to obtain detailed clinical history and demographic data. It is expected to identify and characterize agents of Dengue Fever and Chikungunya as well as other arboviruses of interest and obtain their serological and molecular profile. Additionally, scientific data generated will inform the national policy framework on the control and management of the two viral hemorrhagic fever viruses in the country.

Aims: To identify and characterize Dengue Fever and Chikungunya Viruses and other endemic arboviruses in selected health facilities in Ghana.

Specifically, the study will

• Identify and confirm clinically suspected cases of Dengue Fever and Chikungunya viral infections in patients in selected health facilities.
• Identify other arboviruses that may be present in the study area.
• Describe Dengue and Chikungunya viral disease patterns in the study population and the phylogeny of the circulating viruses.

Activities

• Sentinel Sites Visits
• Sample Collection
• Routine sample processing techniques
  • Molecular – RT-PCR
  • Cell culture

Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers (VHFs) Laboratory Information