Classical dengue in the pediatric population: Epidemiological analysis of hospitalizations in the North region (2019-2023)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Dengue is a disease caused by an arbovirus of the genus Flavivirus. Transmission occurs through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary vector of dengue in Brazil. Recent studies indicate an increase in the incidence of the disease among the younger population under 15 years of age. OBJECTIVE: To analyze and describe the epidemiology of hospitalizations by classical dengue in children up to 14 years old in the North region between 2019 and 2023. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive, quantitative, and retrospective epidemiological study. The analysis covers hospitalizations by classical dengue in children up to 14 years old in the North region from January 2019 to December 2023. Data were extracted from the Hospital Information System of SUS (SIH/SUS) through the DATASUS platform, including variables such as region/federative unit, year, age group, sex, color/race, type of care, and total cost. Information was tabulated and presented in tables and charts using Microsoft Excel and Word. RESULTS: Between 2019 and 2023, there were 4.380 hospitalizations for classical dengue in the pediatric population of the North region. Rondônia had the highest number of cases (1.125, or 25.68%), while Amapá had the lowest number (26, or 0.60%). A significant reduction of 30.5% was observed between 2019 and 2020, with 2020 being the year with the lowest record (533). In contrast, 2022 had the highest number of hospitalizations (1.361). Adolescents aged 10 to 14 were the most affected, accounting for 37.33% of the cases. The male sex had the highest prevalence (54.88%), and the pardo (mixed-race) category was predominant (64.93%). The total expenditure amounted to R$ 1.527.579,18, with 91% of the care being urgent. CONCLUSION: Hospitalizations for classical dengue in the pediatric population of the North region continue to rise, with an epidemiological profile predominantly associated with adolescents aged 10 to 14 years, mixed-race individuals, and residents of Rondônia. It is crucial to implement preventive measures, such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using repellents, ensuring access to medical care, and promoting vaccination.