In recent years, dengue fever has become a significant public health concern in many countries around the world. In Brazil, the largest dengue outbreak on record has been ongoing since January 2024, with over 3.5 million cases reported. A new study published in the American Economic Journal: Applied Economics sheds light on the negative impact of dengue virus infection during pregnancy on birth outcomes and early childhood health.
Researchers from the University of Surrey and the University of Birmingham analyzed a large dataset on dengue-infected pregnant women and birth outcomes in southeastern Brazil. They found that children born to women infected with dengue virus during pregnancy were more likely to be born at a very or extremely low birth weight. This can negatively impact their health for at least the first three years of life.
In particular, newborns of women who had even mild dengue fever during pregnancy had a 67% and 133% higher risk of being classified as very and extremely low birth weight, respectively. From birth to 3 years of age, these children had a 27% higher risk of hospitalization, with a 76% increased risk at 2 years of age.
Overall, this study highlights the importance of preventing dengue virus infection during pregnancy to promote healthy birth outcomes and reduce the risk of adverse health effects in early childhood.
