Pattern of positive Rift Valley Fever during epidemic in Yemen, 2000

This study was conducted at the time of RVF epidemic in Al-Zuhrah district, Hodiedah Governorate, Yemen, during Sep. - Dec. 2000; included 48 patients who were clinically RVF suggest cases and proved by serology (IgM capture ELIZA) done by the NAMRU3 with association of the WHO Collaborating Center in Egypt. This study showed a prevalence of 0.05%, with higher percentage of completely cure (81.35%). Only 12.4% were complicated and 6.25% were died. The study concluded that in Yemen, RVF affected few number of peoples, mainly those who were in close contact with infected animals and the clinical presentations were usually mild. However, in Al-Zuhrah district, most of the cases presented with severe manifestations of the disease which may be attributed to other associated factors including the presence of endemic malaria and higher cases of pulmonary tuberculosis in association to the low socioeconomic conditions with poor nutrition.