Evidence of Vertical Dengue Transmission: A Case of Fever in a 4-Day-Old Neonate.

BACKGROUND Dengue is a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, with rare cases of vertical transmission occurring through infected mothers. Acute infection can be identified by molecular viral testing or by detecting dengue non-structural protein 1 (NS1) and elevated serum IgM. This report describes the case of a 4-day-old male neonate with fever, rash, and jaundice due to vertical transmission of maternal dengue virus infection, confirmed by NS1 detection. CASE REPORT We report a case of a 4-day-old male neonate admitted with high fever, rash, and jaundice. Initial laboratory investigations showed thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, and signs of systemic inflammation. The mother and infant both tested positive for dengue NS1 antigen, confirming vertical transmission. The neonate received supportive management in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), including intravenous fluids and platelet transfusions. He gradually recovered without complications and was discharged in stable condition. CONCLUSIONS This case underscores the importance of considering congenital dengue in neonates born to mothers with peripartum dengue infection. NS1 antigen testing can aid early diagnosis, even before seroconversion occurs. Prompt supportive care, especially monitoring and treating thrombocytopenia, is essential for a favorable outcome. Increased awareness and standardized management guidelines are needed to improve neonatal care in similar cases.