Dengue Infection in Pregnant Women: Clinical and Public Health Implications

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594532406065

• Palavras-chave: Dengue; Pregnancy; Maternal health; Fetal outcomes; Vector control

• Keywords: Dengue; Pregnancy; Maternal health; Fetal outcomes; Vector control

• Abstract: INTRODUCTION The introduction outlines the significance of dengue as a global public health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. It emphasizes the increased prevalence and incidence of dengue, including the rising cases in Brazil in 2024. The section highlights the unique vulnerability of pregnant women to dengue due to physiological and immunological changes during pregnancy. It discusses the complex pathophysiology of dengue, diagnostic challenges, maternal and fetal complications, and the importance of preventive measures and public health interventions. OBJETIVE To provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of dengue infection in pregnant women, encompassing epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, complications, management, and prevention. METHODS This is a narrative review which included studies in the MEDLINE – PubMed (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health), COCHRANE, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases, using as descriptors: “Dengue” AND “Pregnancy” AND “Maternal complications” AND Vertical transmission” AND “Vector control” in the last years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The results and discussion section delves into the global prevalence and incidence of dengue, with a focus on pregnant women. It examines the mechanisms of dengue transmission and the seasonal patterns of outbreaks. The section evaluates the impact of dengue on maternal and fetal health, comparing clinical presentations between pregnant and non-pregnant women. It discusses the efficacy of diagnostic methods and the complications associated with dengue hemorrhagic fever in pregnancy. The section also addresses treatment protocols, preventive strategies, and the role of public health policies in dengue control. It highlights the importance of maternal education programs, environmental management, and international collaboration in dengue research and prevention. CONCLUSION The conclusion underscores the complex interplay of risks and challenges associated with dengue infection during pregnancy. It emphasizes the need for accurate diagnosis, timely management, and effective preventive measures to reduce the burden of dengue among pregnant women. The section calls for targeted research and clinical strategies to address the needs of this high-risk population, highlighting the importance of international collaboration and public health interventions in improving maternal and fetal health outcomes.