TITLE:
Molecular Characterization of Dengue Virus Serotypes among Febrile Non-Malaria Patients in Three Hospitals in Southern Benin
AUTHORS:
Tatchémè Filémon Tokponnon, Comlan Fabrice Gandaho, Minassou Juvenal Ahouandjinou, Linda Towakinou, Zoulkifilou Sare Dabou, Olivier Tandjekpon, Djibril Amoussa, Mistourath Issa, Brunelle Agassounon, Idayath Gounou Yérima, Razaki Osse, Gatien Lokossou, Lamine Baba-Moussa, Martin Akogbeto, Dorothée Kinde Gazard
KEYWORDS:
Dengue, Serotypes, DENV-2, DENV-3, Fever, Nested PCR, Southern Benin
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Molecular Biology,
Vol.16 No.3,
July
13,
2026
ABSTRACT: In sub-Saharan Africa, malaria is commonly considered the leading cause of febrile illness. However, a substantial proportion of malaria-negative febrile patients suggests the involvement of other infectious agents, particularly arboviruses such as dengue. In Benin, data on circulating dengue virus serotypes in humans remain limited, especially among non-malarial febrile patients. Objective: The main objective of this study was to characterize the dengue virus serotypes circulating among malaria-negative febrile patients attending three hospitals in southern Benin (Abomey, Abomey-Calavi, and Lokossa). A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between June 2024 and January 2025 among 1490 febrile patients. After biological testing for malaria, 120 malaria-negative patients were selected for dengue virus detection using nested polymerase chain reaction (nested PCR). Positive samples were further analyzed for serotype identification. Results: Among the 1490 febrile patients, 288 (19.3%) had confirmed malaria, while 1202 (80.7%) tested negative. Of the 120 malaria-negative patients tested by nested PCR, 11 dengue cases were identified, corresponding to a prevalence of 9.16%. Cases were distributed across Abomey-Calavi (5 cases), Abomey (3 cases), and Lokossa (3 cases). Serotype analysis revealed a marked predominance of DENV-2 (10 cases) and the presence of DENV-3 (1 case), indicating co-circulation of multiple serotypes. Young adults aged 20 - 30 years were the most affected group, with a female predominance. Conclusion: This study demonstrates active circulation of DENV-2 and DENV-3 among malaria-negative febrile patients in southern Benin. The predominance of DENV-2 and detection of DENV-3 confirm the co-circulation of dengue virus serotypes in the human population. These findings highlight the importance of integrating dengue testing into the diagnostic workup of non-malarial febrile illnesses and strengthening virological surveillance to prevent potential outbreaks and severe forms of the disease.