Characterizing Dengue in Kathmandu, Nepal: A Prospective, Descriptive Study.

Funders
Wellcome Trust (Core grant scientific fund from OUCRU Vietnam)

Principle Investigators
Ajit Poudel

Co Investigators

Associate Professor Abhilasha Karkey

Dr Sabina Dongol

Associate Professor Sophie Yacoub

Kien Duong Thi Hue, OUCRU-Vietnam

Vi Tran Thuy, Molecular diagnostics lead, Dengue group, OUCRU

This two-year prospective study will characterize dengue in Kathmandu, Nepal, involving 400 participants aged 5+ with confirmed dengue from three hospitals. The primary goal is to identify circulating dengue virus (DENV) serotypes and genotypes via RT-PCR and sequencing. Secondary objectives include analyzing clinical and laboratory characteristics (symptoms, blood counts, liver enzymes) and describing clinical outcomes (recovered uncomplicated/severe dengue, death). Motivated by Nepal’s rising dengue burden, especially the 2022 outbreak, this research addresses knowledge gaps about viral dynamics and host factors. Participants from outpatient, emergency, and inpatient departments will be included based on a positive NS1 test and consent, excluding those with other infections, mental health issues, or pregnancy. Blood samples will be collected on days 1 and 5. This study will inform public health strategies and improve patient care by providing data on circulating strains and clinical presentations.

Study Design : Prospective Descriptive Study

Study Participants: Participants aged 5 years and above with laboratory-confirmed dengue

Planned Sample Size : 400 participants who are attending Kathmandu Model Hospital and Nepal Korea Friendship Municipality Hospital.

Primary Objectives :

To identify the circulating serotypes and genotypes of DENV in urban Kathmandu over 2 years.

Secondary Objectives:

To investigate the clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients with confirmed dengue presenting to 3 referral hospitals in Kathmandu
To describe the clinical outcomes of the patients.

Expected Outcome:

DENV serotypes identified by RT-PCR and genotypes identified by sequencing for viral genotyping
Clinical characteristics will include symptoms and signs associated with dengue. Laboratory characteristics include haematocrit, WBC count, platelet count, ALT and AST.
Clinical outcomes of dengue will include:
- Recovered uncomplicated dengue
- Recovered severe dengue without sequelae
- Recovered severe dengue with sequelae
- Severe dengue leading to death