Molecular Identification of Arboviral Infections (Dengue, Chikungunya, Yellow Fever, Rift Valley Fever, Mayaro, West Nile, and Zika) in Acute Febrile Illnesses Without Malaria in Kenya's Garissa and Mombasa Counties, July 2023 and July 2024 - Report - MDSpire
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Molecular Identification of Arboviral Infections (Dengue, Chikungunya, Yellow Fever, Rift Valley Fever, Mayaro, West Nile, and Zika) in Acute Febrile Illnesses Without Malaria in Kenya's Garissa and Mombasa Counties, July 2023 and July 2024

  • By

  • Abdi Roba

  • John Kiiru

  • Elvis Kirui

  • Paul Langat

  • Marygorett Mbeneka

  • Mellap Wanyonyi

  • Judith Nasengo

  • Hakim I. Lagu

  • Emmanuel Achol

  • Muna Affara

  • Florian Gehre

  • Hussein Hassan

  • Evans Odiambo

  • Fatuma Dugay

  • Aden Hussein

  • Frankline Okemwa

  • Salma Swaleh

  • Suleiman Thani

  • Rose Gichana

  • Isaiah Karissa

  • Millicent Ndia

  • January 9, 2026

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Molecular Identification of Arboviral Infections in Acute Febrile Illnesses

Overview

This study highlights the prevalence of arboviral infections in non-malarial febrile patients in Kenya's Garissa and Mombasa counties. Utilizing a mobile laboratory, the research underscores the importance of timely diagnosis and surveillance in regions with limited access to healthcare.

Background

Arboviral infections represent a significant public health threat in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in areas with limited diagnostic capabilities. The emergence of these viruses, coupled with the generic nature of their symptoms, complicates diagnosis and management. Enhanced surveillance and diagnostic infrastructure are crucial for effective public health interventions in these regions.

Data Highlights

No numerical data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Arboviral infections are prevalent in non-malarial febrile patients in Garissa and Mombasa counties.
  • A mobile laboratory significantly reduces diagnostic sample turnaround time.
  • Timely diagnosis is critical for improving patient management and public health responses.
  • Garissa County's unique geographical and demographic challenges necessitate innovative diagnostic solutions.
  • Previous outbreaks of arboviruses in Kenya highlight the ongoing risk of these infections.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers in regions with endemic arboviral infections should consider these pathogens in differential diagnoses for febrile illnesses. The implementation of mobile laboratories can enhance diagnostic capabilities and improve patient outcomes in underserved areas.

Conclusion

The findings emphasize the need for improved diagnostic infrastructure to address arboviral infections in Kenya. Continued surveillance and timely interventions are essential to mitigate the public health impact of these diseases.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- Summary of a Collaborative Research Framework for Arboviruses Transmitted by Mosquitoes
  2. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- Assessment of Portable Molecular Differential Testing in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria
  3. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- Prevalence of Antibodies Against Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya Viruses in Humans and Nearby Macaques in Thailand and Cambodia
  4. WHO guidelines for clinical management of arboviral diseases: dengue, chikungunya, Zika and yellow fever
  5. Laboratory testing for dengue virus: interim guidance, April 2025
  6. The Journal of Infectious Diseases — Investigating Infectious Etiologies of Fever of Unknown Origin: A Retrospective Laboratory Study of Suspected Ebola Virus Cases in Guinea, 2014
  7. WHO guidelines for clinical management of arboviral diseases: dengue, chikungunya, Zika and yellow fever
  8. Laboratory testing for dengue virus: interim guidance, April 2025
  9. Joint FAO/WHO/WOAH Rapid Risk Assessment of Rift Valley fever (RVF) in Senegal and Mauritania: Implications for Public Health and Animal Health

Original Source(s)

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