Prevalence of fever of unidentified aetiology in East African adolescents and adults

A new study has found that nearly two-thirds of adolescent and adult patients presenting with fever in East African health facilities may be receiving inappropriate treatments due to unidentified underlying causes. The research highlights that primary health care centers and hospitals in low- and middle-income countries often lack adequate diagnostic tools, laboratory resources, and trained personnel to accurately identify multiple pathogens.

The study underscores a significant gap in understanding the aetiology of fever in these populations, calling for the implementation of comprehensive fever syndromic surveillance systems. Such initiatives, researchers suggest, are essential to improve diagnostic accuracy, guide appropriate treatment, and ultimately enhance patient outcomes across the region.