Epidemiological Characteristics of Dengue Infection in Bangladesh: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND

Dengue infection (DI) is a mosquito-borne arboviral disease primarily transmitted by infected female Aedes mosquitoes. In Bangladesh, DI poses a substantial public health challenge with recurrent outbreaks and rising incidence rates. This systematic review assesses the epidemiological characteristics of dengue infection in Bangladesh, focusing on demographic, clinical, and geographic trends.

OBJECTIVES

To analyze dengue prevalence, demographic distribution, clinical symptoms, and serotype patterns in Bangladesh, with an emphasis on urban-rural disparities, gender differences, and serotype evolution.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Global Health (Ovid) databases, reviewing studies published from 2000 to 2024. Following PRISMA guidelines, 25 studies meeting eligibility criteria were selected. Data extraction and quality assessment were independently performed by three reviewers, ensuring methodological rigor.

RESULTS

Dengue incidence was higher in urban areas, mainly affecting males aged 20-34, with dengue virus serotype 3 (DENV-3) as the dominant serotype. Fever, headache, and joint pain were the most common symptoms, while severe cases often presented with respiratory and hemorrhagic complications. Acute symptoms like dyspnea and dehydration spread rapidly in densely populated areas. In rural areas, dengue showed a more endemic pattern, with persistent symptoms such as gastroenteritis and muscle pain.

CONCLUSION

Dengue is now firmly endemic in Bangladesh, with clear geographic, demographic, and clinical differences. The dominance of DENV-3 and its association with more severe illness highlight the need for targeted and context specific interventions. Control efforts should prioritize vector management, public education, and continuous surveillance in urban areas, while strengthening community surveillance and primary healthcare in rural settings. Further research on rural transmission and the clinical impact of DENV-3 is essential to guide effective and tailored dengue control strategies.