This study was carried out to determine seroprevalence, and risk factors of chikungunya (CHIKV), dengue (DENV) and Zika (ZIKV) viruses in Tanzania.
The study involve Buhigwe, Kalambo, Kilindi, Kinondoni, Kondoa, Kyela, Mvomero, and Ukerewe districts. Blood samples were collected from individuals recruited from households and healthcare facilities. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to screen for immunoglobulin G antibodies against CHIKV, DENV and ZIKV.
A total of 1,818 participants (median age = 34 years) were recruited. The overall CHIKV, DENV and ZIKV seroprevalence were 28.0%, 16.1%, and 6.8%, respectively. CHIKV prevalence was highest in Buhigwe (46.8%), DENV in Kinondoni (43.8%), while ZIKV in Ukerewe (10.6%) and Mvomero (10.6%). Increasing age and frequent mosquito bites were significantly associated with CHIKV and DENV seropositivity (p<0.05). Having piped water or presence of stagnant water around home (p < 0.01) were associated with higher odds of DENV seropositivity. Fever was significantly associated with increased odds of CHIKV seropositivity (p < 0.001). Visiting mines had higher odds of ZIKV seropositivity (p < 0.05).
These findings indicate that DENV, CHIKV, and ZIKV are circulating in diverse ecological zones of Tanzania. There is a need to strengthen control of mosquito-borne viral diseases in Tanzania.

Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

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