Clinical and laboratory characteristics of dengue and COVID-19 coinfected patients in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background Dengue–COVID-19 coinfection is one of the greatest emerging challenges in dengue-endemic areas during the continuing pandemic. With coinciding clinical and laboratory pictures, early diagnosis becomes burdensome, with management discrepancy. Methods A descriptive study was performed on dengue–COVID-19 coinfected patients during July–August 2021 for an overview of disease progression, severity and outcome. A total of 11 patients who were positive for dengue NS1 and/or antidengue IgM were included in this study. Results In total, 45.5% patients developed severe COVID-19 disease, 45.5% patients developed group B dengue fever and 9% patients developed group C dengue fever. Concurrent severity of both diseases was seen to be rare, except for in one patient. Conclusion Early diagnosis and compatible management still stand as basic principles to prevent fatality and morbidity.

Two viruses in a pod: a case series of coinfection of COVID-19 with dengue

“…Fortunately, the patient did not have severe thrombocytopenia, and anticoagulation could be prescribed. A study from Bangladesh suggested that in cases of coinfection, anticoagulation can be administered when platelets are above 75 000/mm 3 [ 11 ]. More research is required to establish the appropriate strategy for managing coagulopathy in coinfections.…”

Effective Preventative Measures are Essential to Lower Disease Burden From Dengue and COVID-19 Co-infection in Bangladesh

“…24 Another case report of 11 co-infected patients was found in Bangladesh, and some of them exhibited severe COVID-19 disease, severe dengue fever, oxygen support requirements, dengue shock syndrome, and even mortality. 25 The analysis of previous studies undertaken globally and in Bangladesh, as previously mentioned, elucidates the evident potential danger associated with co-infection. However, in general, numerous instances of co-infection are not officially documented due to the similarity of clinical symptoms, incorrect or delayed diagnosis, an inadequate healthcare system, a lack of public awareness, and other factors that are particularly evident in a less developed country like Bangladesh.…”

“…The use of the proper anticoagulants is necessary when COVID-19 disease results in arterial or venous thrombosis but is contraindicated in cases of dengue infection due to the risk of overt bleeding. 25 In 2023, Bangladesh has witnessed a significant escalation in dengue epidemics, exhibiting a worsening trend. The simultaneous presence of dengue and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic poses a considerable risk, as the country must now deal with the challenge of managing these 2 separate infections concurrently, along with the possibility of co-infections.…”

“… 24 Another case report of 11 co-infected patients was found in Bangladesh, and some of them exhibited severe COVID-19 disease, severe dengue fever, oxygen support requirements, dengue shock syndrome, and even mortality. 25 …”

“…The use of the proper anticoagulants is necessary when COVID-19 disease results in arterial or venous thrombosis but is contraindicated in cases of dengue infection due to the risk of overt bleeding. 25 …”