EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF DENGUE IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS IN BRAZIL: REPORTED CASES (2019-2023)

Abstract

Introduction: Dengue is an infectious disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, affecting mainly tropical regions. Between 2019 and 2023, the incidence of the disease in children in Brazil increased significantly, aggravated by the circulation of the DENV-1 and DENV-2 serotypes. Child vulnerability, associated with factors such as developing immune systems and socioeconomic conditions, makes the epidemiological analysis of dengue in this group essential. Objectives: The general objective of this study was to analyze the epidemiology of dengue in children in Brazil between 2019 and 2023. Specific objectives included investigating the relationship between age and disease severity, incidence by sex and region, and the number of hospitalizations for dengue. Methodology: This is a retrospective and descriptive epidemiological study with a quantitative approach, using secondary data from DATASUS and SINAN. Probable and confirmed cases of dengue in children and adolescents (0-19 years) were analyzed using the ICD-10 Morbidity List. The data were submitted to statistical analysis and association tests (Chi-square) to verify the correlation between variables. Results: In the period analyzed, 1,501,372 probable cases of dengue among children and adolescents were recorded, with 1,251,126 confirmations. The Northeast had the highest hospitalization rate (28.8%), while the Southeast had the highest incidence of cases. The DENV-3 serotype predominated in the North and the DENV-4 in the South. The mortality rate was 0.28%, with higher lethality in the age group of children under 1 year old. Conclusion: The study revealed the regional heterogeneity and severity of dengue in children in Brazil. Differences in disease incidence and severity require effective public policies, including vector control, expansion of health infrastructure, and educational campaigns. Continuous monitoring of serotypes and investment in prevention are essential to reduce the impact of dengue on the Brazilian child population.