Developing Effective Dengue Outbreak Management by Identifying Atypical Clinical Characteristics and Co-Infections in Dengue Patients in Odisha

The most prevalent virus transmission by mosquitoes globally is still dengue, which is mostly transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus and is triggered by the Flavivirus. Odisha has recently been identified as one of the hotspots for transmission of dengue in eastern India because of the regular seasonal outbreaks. The identification of proliferating serotypes, co-infections, and atypical clinical signs and symptoms is crucial for better outbreak management and treatment strategies. A cross-sectional study was conducted at ICMR-RMRC Bhubaneswar to enhance dengue prevention efforts by employing laboratory, clinical, and entomological observations. RT-PCR was implemented for molecular identification and serotyping, and ELISA was performed to test serum samples from possible cases for the NS1 antigen or IgM antibodies. Aedes breeding parameters (HI, CI, and PI) were assessed by concurrent vector observation in outbreak regions in order to develop targeted preventative measures. Among the 975 dengue patients who were diagnosed, DEN-2 was found to be the most prevalent circulating serotype; of these, 78.5% were NS1 antigen positive, and 26.7% were IgM positive. The majority of cases showed significant seasonal fluctuation, peaking in August and continuing from May through November. 5.9% of cases had co-infections with other diseases, indicating that diagnosing outbreaks can be challenging. High Aedes breeding indices (CI 48.21, HI 28.57, PI 288.57) were found by entomological surveillance, highlighting the necessity of improved vector control and comprehensive outbreak strategies for management adapted from the “1-3-7” approach. According to the current findings, Odisha has a DEN-2 preponderance and an increase in co-infections; increased Aedes breeding indexes are associated with case clustering. To stop dengue epidemics in the future, outbreak management must be strengthened by early identification, ongoing surveillance, and coordinated vector control with community engagement.