EPIDEMIOLOGY AND COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT OF THE DENGUE OUTBREAK IN DISTRICT NOWSHERA KHYBER-PAKHTUNKHWA

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the dengue outbreak in District Nowshera in 2024, highlighting key findings and implications for public health management. Hospital-wise data reveals a relatively equal distribution of cases across Cat-D Hospital Dag Ismail Khel, RHC Pir Piai, and MRHSM Hospital Pabbi, with 250, 250, and 223 cases respectively, indicating efficient reporting and high disease incidence. Gender distribution is almost equal, with male cases (365) slightly surpassing female cases (358), showing no significant sexual predisposition. Geographically, rural areas report over 200 cases, compared to around 50 from urban zones, emphasizing higher prevalence or better reporting in rural councils. Occupation-wise, farmers are the most affected (160), followed by teachers (145), shopkeepers (140), unemployed (140), and students (130), suggesting that vulnerability is not occupation-dependent. The peak in cases during August (145 patients) followed by a decline in subsequent months indicates possible seasonality or environmental factors. Symptom analysis reveals fever in 360 cases, pyrexia in 360, and bleeding symptoms in 350, highlighting multi- symptom diagnosis importance. Skin rashes are common in 400 cases, but not conclusive for diagnosis. Most patients (250) have completed treatment, reflecting good recovery rates, but 240 remain under observation and 230 are in critical condition, emphasizing the need for improved critical care management. This study provides valuable demographic, symptom, and outcome data, which can help  in advancing targeted public health strategies and improving healthcare delivery systems in dengue-affected areas.