Concurrent Infection with Plasmodium vivax and the Dengue and Chikungunya Viruses in a Paediatric Patient from New Delhi, India in 2016

Abstract

Dengue and chikungunya fevers are transmitted by the common mosquito vector Aedes and malaria by Anopheles. Concurrent infections are reported due to co-circulation of these pathogens, especially in endemic regions. We report a rare case of triple infection with 3 arthropod-borne pathogens (Plasmodium vivax and the dengue and chikungunya viruses) in a 3-year-old child from New Delhi, India, in August 2016. The viruses were identified by RT-PCR and the parasite by microscopy and antigen detection. The dengue virus serotype 3 sequence was clustered in the genotype III by the phylogenetic analysis. Mixed infection with multiple pathogens is a challenge for accurate diagnosis due to the overlapping clinical symptoms. The accurate and timely diagnosis of multiple pathogens in such cases is important for rapid and effective patient management.