Arbovirus Epidemiology: The Mystery of Unnoticed Epidemics in Ghana, West Africa

Abstract

It is evident that all the countries surrounding Ghana have experienced epidemics of key arboviruses of medical importance, such as the recent dengue fever epidemic in Burkina Faso. Therefore, Ghana is considered a ripe zone for epidemics of arboviruses, mainly dengue. Surprisingly, Ghana never experienced the propounded deadly dengue epidemic. Indeed, it is mysterious because the mosquito vectors capable of transmitting the dengue virus, such as Aedes aegypti, were identified in Ghana through entomological investigations. Additionally, cases may be missed, as the diagnostic and surveillance capacities of the country are weak. Therefore, we review the arbovirus situation and outline probable reasons for the epidemic mystery in the country. Most of the recorded cases of arbovirus infections were usually investigated via serology by detecting IgM and IgG immunoglobulins in clinical samples, which is indicative of prior exposure but not an active case. This led to the identification of yellow fever virus and dengue virus as the main circulating arboviruses among the Ghanaian population. However, major yellow fever epidemics were reported for over a decade. It is important to note that the reviewed arboviruses were not frequently detected in the vectors. The data highlight the necessity of strengthening the diagnostics and the need for continuous arbovirus and vector surveillance to provide an early warning system for future arbovirus epidemics.

Molecular detection of Dengue virus from febrile patient cases in Ghana

“…Dengue fever, which can progress into Dengue hemorrhagic fever is of public health concern as transmission of the virus is mediated by the vector Aedes spp. which is dominant in-country (12). In this study, we observed the sporadic detection of DENV among individuals with febrile illnesses in Ghana post COVID-19 pandemic, 2022-2023.…”

Yellow fever in Ghana: Predicting emergence and ecology from historical outbreaks

“…This also included a 2000 WHO report which included YF case reporting among countries from 1950-1998 [17]. We also reviewed additional WHO documents, including a 2005 report on YF in Ghana [18] which was referenced in a review of arboviruses in Ghana [19]. Finally, we reviewed publicly available online reports from the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Ghana Weekly Epidemiological Report.…”