Comparison of dried blood spot (DBS) and serum samples for measuring dengue seroprevalence in a healthy adult community in Makassar, Indonesia

Aims: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of dried blood spot (DBS) in detecting anti-dengue IgG antibodies using the ELISA method, comparing results with serum samples from the same individuals.Methodology and results: We collected a total of 73 samples, both DBS and serum, from healthy donors during blood donation activities conducted by the Regional Branch of the Indonesian Red Cross in Makassar City.Employing dengue IgG indirect ELISA Kits (Panbio, Australia), the examination revealed an 82% sero-conversion rate (60 out of 73) from DBS compared to 89% (65 out of 73) from serum samples.Using serum as the gold standard, the study demonstrated that DBS specimens for ELISA examination have 92% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and a positive predictive value (PPV) at 100%, while the negative predictive value (NPV) stands at 62%. Conclusion, significance and impact of study:This study underscores the potential of DBS as a field-friendly alternative for seroprevalence surveys, providing insights into pathogen distribution.Additionally, it sheds light on the high exposure rate of the dengue virus in the adult population of Makassar, confirming the endemicity of the virus in the city.