Somalilandsun -As of October 2023, Somaliland is experiencing a significant dengue fever outbreak, with a notable surge in reported cases, particularly in the Hargeisa, Boroma, and Gebiley districts; the Somaliland Ministry of Health has alerted the WHO regarding this outbreak, and investigations confirmed a substantial number of positive cases through rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs).
Key points about dengue fever in Somaliland:
Recent surge: A significant increase in dengue cases has been observed in Somaliland since October 2023.
Affected areas: The most impacted areas include Hargeisa, Boroma, and Gebiley.
WHO response: The WHO is supporting the Somaliland Ministry of Health with field investigations, providing RDT kits, and building capacity for healthcare workers to detect and manage dengue cases.
Testing and confirmation: Cases are being confirmed through rapid diagnostic tests.
Community awareness: Efforts are underway to raise awareness about dengue prevention measures within the affected communities.
Dengue fever is a significant global public health concern. However, its epidemiology in Somaliland remains poorly characterized.
This is report of a study aimed to provide comprehensive data on the clinical presentation, demographic characteristics, and serological patterns of dengue fever in Somaliland.
The study provides crucial initial insights into the epidemiology of dengue in Somaliland, revealing distinct characteristics that differ from those of other regions. These findings highlight the urban predominance of cases, the disproportionate impact on adult populations, and the prevalence of acute infections, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and enhanced surveillance.
These results lay the foundation for future research and policy decisions, emphasizing the importance of strengthening vector control measures, diagnostic capacity, and public awareness.
Despite these limitations, this study serves as a stepping stone for more comprehensive investigations to address knowledge gaps and develop effective strategies for combating dengue in Somaliland and similar settings.
The insights gained from this research contribute to a broader understanding of dengue epidemiology in understudied regions and underscore the importance of context-specific approaches in global dengue control efforts.
Read the full Epidemiology of Dengue Fever in Somaliland ,Clinical Features, and Serological Patterns-Study report HERE
