Background: In Nigeria, intestinal parasitic infection (IPI) is one of the neglected tropical diseases of public health importance. Objectives: This study investigated intestinal parasitic infection and associated risk factors among... more
Background: In Nigeria, intestinal parasitic infection (IPI) is one of the neglected tropical diseases of public health importance. Objectives: This study investigated intestinal parasitic infection and associated risk factors among primary school-aged children in Sagbama Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Methods: A total of 622 stool samples (335 males and 287 females) were collected from 13 primary schools in nine communities and analyzed using parasitological techniques (direct wet mount and formal ether concentration method). The Tukey Honest Significance Difference test (HSD) was used to determine the association and variation between prevalence and socioeconomic variables. Results: Nine parasite species were encountered with a total prevalence of 23.95%, including Ascaris lumbricoides (7.32%), Entamoeba histolytica (4.98%), Strongyloides stercorals (2.09%), Giardia lamblia (1.93%), Hookworm (1.77%), Trichuris trichiura (1.61%), Schistosoma mansoni (1.45%), Diphyll...
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Background: Malaria during pregnancy escalates the damaging consequence to the mother and neonate. The usage of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria (IPTp) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is recommended for averting the... more
Background: Malaria during pregnancy escalates the damaging consequence to the mother and neonate. The usage of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria (IPTp) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is recommended for averting the deleterious consequences of malaria in pregnancy. This study evaluated the effectiveness of, and compliance with the use of SP for malaria among pregnant women in Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria. Method: A total of 300 samples of maternal peripheral blood (MPB), 84 neonatal cord blood (NCB) and 84 placental blood (PLB) were collected from consenting mothers. Malaria parasitaemia were analysed using standard parasitological methods, and bio-data of consenting mothers were collected through questionnaires and from ANC records. Results: Out of the samples examined for MPB, 59(19.7%) tested positive to malaria. Those with only primary education (57.1%) and women of age ≤ 20yrs (25%) had higher prevalence. Women who took SP had significantly lower prevalen...
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Urban and peri-urban areas are considered to be at lower risk of malaria compared to rural areas because of improved housing, higher socioeconomic status, improved environmental sanitation, and a limited number of breeding sites for... more
Urban and peri-urban areas are considered to be at lower risk of malaria compared to rural areas because of improved housing, higher socioeconomic status, improved environmental sanitation, and a limited number of breeding sites for mosquitoes. Reports have shown that there is an increased prevalence of malaria in urban and peri-urban areas but it has not been established which of these areas is at risk. The aim of this study, therefore, is to determine the prevalence rate of Plasmodium falciparum malaria infection among children in urban and peri-urban areas of Rivers State. A total of 601 and 500 blood samples were collected from urban and peri-urban areas respectively and examined using standard microscopy technique for detection of malaria parasites in blood samples. From the urban area, 282 tested positive out of 601 blood samples that were examined, giving the prevalence rate of 47% while in the peri-urban settlement, a total of 210 out of 500 tested positive to Plasmodium fal...
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Background: Malaria causes diverse adverse effects in the fetus due to the invasion of the placenta by Plasmodium. The use of intermittent preventive treatment (Sulphadoxinepyrimethamine- IPTp-SP) as a control measure for malaria in... more
Background: Malaria causes diverse adverse effects in the fetus due to the invasion of the placenta by Plasmodium. The use of intermittent preventive treatment (Sulphadoxinepyrimethamine- IPTp-SP) as a control measure for malaria in pregnancy has been recommended and shown to reduce unwanted birth outcomes. Objectives: This work aimed to evaluate the effects of intervention schemes on sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) compliance and utilization among pregnant women in a health facility in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methods: A hospital-based survey was carried out among pregnant women admitted to the Labor ward of Obio-Cottage hospital. The information of mothers was collected using a well-structured and pre-tested questionnaire and from their antenatal care (ANC) records. Results: Time of ANC registration indicated that 87%, 11.33%, and 1.66% of mothers were registered during their first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. Sulphadoxinepyrimethamine was the drug of choice for 93....
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Coccidiosis is considered as one the most economically important diseases of poultry and has tremendous socio-economic impact in Nigeria, where family incomes rely heavily on poultry farming. The molecular identification and prevalence of... more
Coccidiosis is considered as one the most economically important diseases of poultry and has tremendous socio-economic impact in Nigeria, where family incomes rely heavily on poultry farming. The molecular identification and prevalence of poultry Eimeria spp. in Rivers State was determined in this study. Live bird markets (LBM) in Port Harcourt city (the state capital) were targeted so as to obtain holistic data on Eimeria prevalence. Data on specific market characteristics were collected from 9 LBMs. Fecal samples were collected from bird cages and pooled per LBM. Eimeria oocysts were isolated and identified using oocysts morphology and species-specific multiplex PCR amplification using SCAR primers. Regression analysis were used to check for association between Eimeria spp. prevalence and specific market characteristics. The overall prevalence of poultry Eimeria was 77% (7 of 9). Four Eimeria species were confirmed with prevalence of E. tenella: 77%, E. necatrix: 55%, E. acervulin...
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Background: Malaria continues to be of grave concern, despite all efforts geared towards its control and so remains a public health dilemma in Nigeria. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of malaria among... more
Background: Malaria continues to be of grave concern, despite all efforts geared towards its control and so remains a public health dilemma in Nigeria. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of malaria among persons patronizing drugstores for malaria treatment in Port Harcourt and its environs, Rivers State, Nigeria. Methods: Ethical clearance was obtained and samples were randomly collected from 24 drug stores in three different locations and analyzed using both microscopy and rapid diagnostic techniques. Results: Out of 663 participants, 151(22.78%) were positive for Plasmodium falciparum. None was positive for P. Vivax. Preponderance by location showed that out of 221 sampled in each location, Mile IV (Rumueme) 68(30.77%), Rumuosi had 51(23.08%) and D/Line area 32(14.48%). The occurrence of malaria in the study area was significantly different (X2 = 16.69; p = 0.001). Out of the 151 positive cases, 134 (88.0%) had an intensity level of 1,000 parasites/...
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Fascioliasis, a parasitic infection caused by the trematodes worms, Fasciola species, is distributed globally especially in ruminants-rearing region of the world [1]. Infection is endemic in Central and South America (especially Bolivia... more
Fascioliasis, a parasitic infection caused by the trematodes worms, Fasciola species, is distributed globally especially in ruminants-rearing region of the world [1]. Infection is endemic in Central and South America (especially Bolivia and Peru), Europe (especially Portugal, France, Spain, and Turkey), Asia (especially China, Vietnam, Taiwan, Korea, and Thailand), Africa, and the Middle East [2]. Scattered occurrences have also been reported in Australia and the United States of America [3,4]. One hundred per cent (100%) of animals living in endemic area can become harmfully or even fatally infected, especially sheep [5]. An estimated 2.4-17 million people are infected in about 51 countries, and 91 million globally are at risk of infection worldwide [6,7].
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Background: Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoan parasite, and is among the diseases generally referred to as neglected tropical disease (NTD). It can be a reason for impulsive abortion in pregnant women or hereditary... more
Background: Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoan parasite, and is among the diseases generally referred to as neglected tropical disease (NTD). It can be a reason for impulsive abortion in pregnant women or hereditary chorioretinitis in neonates. Objectives: The present study examined seroprevalence and related risk issues of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women (PTW) and non-pregnant females (NPF) of two health facilities in Port Harcourt. Methods: Venous blood was collected from 380 women and analyzed by immunodiagnostic techniques using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent assay) IgG and IgM tests and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire on the socio-demographic risk issues linked with toxoplasmosis. Results: Among the study population, PTW and NPF had seroprevalence of 33.0% and 19.4%, respectively (P < 0.05). PTW recorded a higher overall seroprevalence than NPF with 16.1%, 1.3%, and 8.4%, 0.8% for...
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Transfusion-transmitted malaria unfortunately is still common in malaria endemic countries such as Nigeria because blood donors are not routinely screened for malaria before donation. Also the diagnostic method of malaria is still an... more
Transfusion-transmitted malaria unfortunately is still common in malaria endemic countries such as Nigeria because blood donors are not routinely screened for malaria before donation. Also the diagnostic method of malaria is still an issue in the scientific community. This study compared Giemsa-stained blood film microscopy and malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT)in the determination of the prevalence of malaria parasite among blood donors in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. A total of 300 (202 male and 98 female) blood donors were studied.123 (41.00%)were infected with malaria parasite out of which 91 (30.33%) were male and 32 (10.67%) were female.The difference in prevalence of malaria Parasite in both sexes was statistically significant (P< 0.05). Blood donors screened within age group 20-30 had the highest participants and also the highest prevalence of malaria Parasite (65.85%) and the difference in prevalence of malaria between the various age group was not statistically signifi...
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The study compared the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among some Riverine communities with Upland communities in Rivers state, Nigeria. Three local government areas (LGAs) were randomly selected from both riverine and... more
The study compared the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among some Riverine communities with Upland communities in Rivers state, Nigeria. Three local government areas (LGAs) were randomly selected from both riverine and upland communities respectively and three communities were further selected from each of the LGAs where samples were collected. Sample size was calculated and a total of 1869 samples were collected and analyzed using wet saline/iodine and formol-ether concentration methods according to parasitological standards. One thousand and fifty nine samples were collected from upland communities while 810 samples were collected from riverine communities. Of these samples, 306(28.9%) were positive in the upland communities while 110 (13.6%) were positive in riverine communities. The difference between the prevalence in the upland and riverine communities was statistically significant (P<0.001).Parasites identified in the study include Ascaris lumbricoides (56.6%...
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Plasmodium parasitaemia was determined among pregnant women attending Ante-Natal Clinic at Military Hospital Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria using the Standard parasitological technique. Venous blood was collected from 200 pregnant... more
Plasmodium parasitaemia was determined among pregnant women attending Ante-Natal Clinic at Military Hospital Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria using the Standard parasitological technique. Venous blood was collected from 200 pregnant women, both thick and thin blood films were made on clean greese-free glass slide and stained with 10% Giemsa stains diluted with 7.2 buffered water for 10 minutes and viewed under the microscope using the oil immersion(X100) objective. Of the 200 samples examined, 52 (26.00%) were positive for Plasmodium falciparum with highest prevalence of 15.50% among those in their first trimester, followed by 7.50% for those in the second trimester and 3.00% for those in the third trimester. Women within the age 21-25 years had greater percentage (10.50%) of infection compared with other age range and was followed by those within 26-30years with 6.00%. It was observed that women within the age of 41-45 years, though few, had zero infection rates. The prevalence...
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Intestinal parasitic infections rank among primary school children in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria is the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality, yet behavioral, economic, unhealthy... more
Intestinal parasitic infections rank among primary school children in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria is the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality, yet behavioral, economic, unhealthy environment and other factors have contributed to the widespread of intestinal parasitic infection. Intestinal parasites are organisms that dominate the gastrointestinal tract of humans. Parasitic infection remains a serious public health issue in the study area. Interventions such as provision of adequate sanitary facilities, chemotherapy, portable drinking water, health education should be considered/implemented, improved personal hygiene.
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Preliminary study on urinary schistosomiasis was carried out in five selected communities of Itu Local Government AreaAkwa Ibom State. A total of 400 urine samples were collected and analyzed by microscopy using sedimentation method to... more
Preliminary study on urinary schistosomiasis was carried out in five selected communities of Itu Local Government AreaAkwa Ibom State. A total of 400 urine samples were collected and analyzed by microscopy using sedimentation method to concentrate the eggs in urine. Structured questionnaire was used to determine the level of awareness about the disease by the residents of the communities, and was analysed using the Chi-square. Out of all the urine samples examined, 8(2.00%) were positive to Schistosoma haematobium. Although more females (2.51%) were infected than the males (1.49%), the difference was not statistically significant (P> 0.05). There were differences in prevalence rate in the communities; Odiok (0.00%), Mbiabong (0.25%), Ntak Inyang (0.38%), Ibiaku (0.38%), and Ayadehe (0.00%), it was not significant (P > 0.05). A total of 190 snail vectors comprising of Bulinus species (13.68%), Biomphalaria species (33.12%) and Lymnaea species (53.12%) were obtained. None of the...
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Background: Malaria and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in pregnancy are of great public health importance, jeopardizing the outcome of pregnancy, affecting mother, foetus and new-born babies. Objectives: This cross-sectional study was... more
Background: Malaria and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in pregnancy are of great public health importance, jeopardizing the outcome of pregnancy, affecting mother, foetus and new-born babies. Objectives: This cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence of malaria and hepatitis B virus infections among pregnant women attending the Federal Medical Center, Owerri. Methods: Three hundred maternal blood samples were collected into anticoagulant bottles. Blood samples collected were used to determine malaria parasitaemia and HBV. Malaria parasitaemia was determined using thick and thin films stained with Giemsa staining techniques while HBV was determined using Labcon Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test strip. Results: Out of a total of 300 blood sample examined, 110(36.66%) were positive for malaria while 17(5.67%) were positive for HBV and 10 (3.33%) had co-infection. The age group 15-24 yrs had the highest prevalence of infections (45.76%) of malaria followed by 35-4...
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Background: Monitoring of malaria infection and antimalarial drug efficacy is necessary for effective case management, detection of resistance and control of the disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess malaria infection... more
Background: Monitoring of malaria infection and antimalarial drug efficacy is necessary for effective case management, detection of resistance and control of the disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess malaria infection and the efficacy of antimalarials among persons patronizing drugstores for malaria treatment in Port Harcourt and its environs, Rivers State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Whole blood was randomly collected from individuals visiting 24 drug stores for malaria treatment in three different locations in Port Harcourt and analysed using both microscopy and rapid diagnostic techniques. Results: The overall prevalence of 22.8% was recorded out of 633 participants for (P. falciparum) malaria. Infection was highest in Mile IV (Rumueme) 30.8% followed by Rumuosi, 23.1% and the least was D/Line area, 14.5% out of 221 participants per location respectively. The incidence of malaria in the study area was significantly different (X2 = 16.69; p = 0.001). There wa...
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Background: Intestinal parasites and Salmonella infections are of main public health concerns in Nigeria and the world, especially in developing countries where access to safe water and hygienic food handling practices by food handlers is... more
Background: Intestinal parasites and Salmonella infections are of main public health concerns in Nigeria and the world, especially in developing countries where access to safe water and hygienic food handling practices by food handlers is a challenge. Consequently, food-handlers play a major role in the transmission of these types of foodborne diseases. Objective: This study was to determine the preponderance of intestinal parasites and Salmonella typhi among food-handlers in selected areas in Port Harcourt. Materials and Methods: A total of 480 food-handlers (195 males and 285 females) of various educational levels were sampled. Stool samples were collected and analyses were carried out using direct smear examination and formol-ether concentration technique - adopted for investigation of intestinal parasites and deoxycholate citrate agar and Salmonella-Shigella agar for the cultivation of Salmonella typhi. Results: Of 480 food-handlers examined, comprises of 195(40.6%) males and 28...
Research Interests: Environmental Health, Biology, Medicine, Intestinal Parasites, Salmonella Typhimurium, and 10 moreTyphoid Fever, Salmonella, Food Handlers, Port Harcourt, Medical Sciences and Medicine, Food Handling & Hygiene, Ascaris Lumbricoides, Trichuris Trichiura, intestinal parasitic infestation, and Salmonella Typhi
Malaria still remains a disease of major public health concern in Nigeria especially among the neglected population such as the prison environment. This study investigated malaria prevalence among the inmates of the maximum security... more
Malaria still remains a disease of major public health concern in Nigeria especially among the neglected population such as the prison environment. This study investigated malaria prevalence among the inmates of the maximum security prison in Port Harcourt using standard parasitological technique. Both thick and thin blood films were prepared, air dried, stained with 3% Giemsa stain at pH 7.0 for 30 minutes and examined microscopically using oil immersion objective. Out of the total of 290 inmates examined, 160(55.2%) cases representing overall malaria prevalence defined by positive malaria slide were observed. Of the 290 inmates, 235 were male and 55 were female, out of which 135(57.5%) males and 25(45.5%) females were infected. The sex related prevalence does not show any statistical significance (p>0.05). Prevalence in relation to age was higher (83.3%) among age 66-70 followed by those in the age range <20(72.7%) and the lowest was 0% within the age range of 61-65. There was significant infection level among those within the age range 41-60 and 66-70 (p<0.05). Infection rate by prison unit showed that inmates awaiting trial had higher infection rate (59.5%) followed by those with specific jail term and the lowest was those condemned (45.8%). The infection rate by prison unit is not statistically significant (x 2 =2.068, df =3, p=0.558). Keywords : Malaria; prevalence; prison inmates; Port Harcourt; Rivers State.
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Background: Toxoplasmosis is a serious infection, especially among the immune-compromised people such as HIV/AIDS patients. Objectives: This study assessed the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of toxoplasmosis among HIV patients... more
Background: Toxoplasmosis is a serious infection, especially among the immune-compromised people such as HIV/AIDS patients. Objectives: This study assessed the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of toxoplasmosis among HIV patients and healthy volunteers or immuno-competent persons (IP) in Port Harcourt. Methods: A total of 400 (200 per group) randomly-selected sera were tested for IgG and IgM T. gondii antibodies using ELISA technique. CD4 cell counts were also determined. Demographic and risk factors were determined using a well-structured questionnaire. Results: Overall seroprevalence for HIV and IP using IgG and IgM toxoplasma antibodies was 36.0%, 21.5%, and 1.5%, 7.0%, respectively. The age group f 40 years and above had the highest seroprevalence of 25.3% among the HIV positive persons, while the age groups 25 - 29 years had the highest seroprevalence of 20.0% among the IP. Traders’ positive with HIV had the highest seroprevalence of 30.0% and 0.9% for IgG and IgM toxo...
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Toxoplasmosis is a neglected tropical disease with a global distribution that is estimated to infect one third of the world’s human population. This study was a comparison of ELISA and rapid Immunochromatographic tests (ICT) in diagnosis... more
Toxoplasmosis is a neglected tropical disease with a global distribution that is estimated to infect one third of the world’s human population. This study was a comparison of ELISA and rapid Immunochromatographic tests (ICT) in diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in Port Harcourt Nigeria. Eight hundred patients grouped in four categories from three Health Care Centres were randomly sampled after due ethical approval was obtained. Samples were analysed using Toxo IgG-IgM rapid test (ICT) and Enzyme linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique. Socio Demo graphic Data were obtained using well-structured questionnaires. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis based on ICT was 28.1% while that of ELISA was 34.5% both significant (P < 0.05) with a relative risk of 0.815. The diagnostic parameters of ICT versus ELISA IgG were sensitively 46.7% specificity 81.7% positive predictive value (PPV) 57.3%, Negative predictive value (NPV) 74.4 with a diagnostic efficiency of 69.6% Cohen Kappas indicate goo...
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Objectives: The study aimed to assess Malaria infection, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) on malaria of persons patronising drugstores for malaria treatment in Port Harcourt and its environs in Rivers State, Nigeria. Methods: Whole... more
Objectives: The study aimed to assess Malaria infection, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) on malaria of persons patronising drugstores for malaria treatment in Port Harcourt and its environs in Rivers State, Nigeria. Methods: Whole blood samples were collected from 663 participants by venepuncture from 24 randomly selected drugstores at three different locations and were analysed using established practice. Also, a semi structured questionnaire was also administered to obtain socio-demographic characteristics and the participants&#39; Knowledge, Attitude and practice (KAP) on malaria. Results: Out of the 663 participants, 151 (22.8%) were positive for malaria. The occurrence of malaria in the study areas were Mile 4 (Rumueme) 30.8%, Rumuosi 23.1% and D/line 14.5% which was significantly different (P = 0.001). More persons 458 (69.1%) between the ages of 25years and above participated in the study. Also, more males 357 (53.9%) than females 306 (46.2%) participated in the study. In all, 98.5% were aware of what malaria is and 89.4% knew that mosquito bite was responsible for malaria. On the whole, 97.1% of the respondents had a good Original Research Article Augustine-D&#39;Israel and Abah; IJTDH, 33(3): 1-12, 2018; Article no.IJTDH.44893 2 knowledge of malaria. Overall, 97.7% of the participants showed a good attitude regarding malaria. Approximately 84% of the participants had poor practice about malaria. Conclusion: Malaria infection rate, Knowledge of and attitude to malaria were high but the practice was low in the study area. There is need to intensify efforts towards education of the people on the necessity of compliance to good practice as that is the only way the war on malaria control can be effectively won.
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Schistosomiasis is one of the most important neglected tropical diseases in terms of morbidity and mortality and it is endemic in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of urogenital... more
Schistosomiasis is one of the most important neglected tropical diseases in terms of morbidity and mortality and it is endemic in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in four communities (Agbura, Otakeme, Otuagela and Otuokpoti) in Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria using Filtration and Sedimentation technique. Snails collected were identified by the shape of their outer shell. Basic statistics method and ANOVA was used to analyze the data. Out of the 276 urine samples examined, 36 (13.0%) tested positive for Schistosoma haematobium. The age- related infection showed that the age-group 10-14 years (26.9%) had the highest rate of infection, followed by 5-9 years 7 (19.4%). Age-group 50 years and above had a zero infection rate. Sex - related infection showed that an overall prevalence rate of 71.6% was recorded among males and 39.4% for females indicating that infection was higher in ...
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The use of sulphadoxine pyrimethamine (IPTp-Sp) as a control measure for malaria infection has been found to prevent malaria in pregnancy. However there are still gaps in levels of compliance. This study was carried out to evaluate these... more
The use of sulphadoxine pyrimethamine (IPTp-Sp) as a control measure for malaria infection has been found to prevent malaria in pregnancy. However there are still gaps in levels of compliance. This study was carried out to evaluate these gaps in compliance to IPTp-Sp and its effects on placental and neonatal malaria in two health facilities in Rivers State, Nigeria. Three hundred consented participants were administered questionnaires, and blood samples collected from maternal peripheral blood (MPB), placental blood (PLB) and neonatal cord blood (NCB) immediately after delivery. Malaria parasitaemia and anaemia were analysed using standard parasitological and haematological methods of examination. Results showed that 83(27.7%) MPB, 66(22.0%) PLB, and 40(13.3%) NCB were positive to malaria parasitaemia cases. On IPTp-SP usage, 261(87.0%) received SP in different doses while 39(13.0%) did not (p<0.05). Sixty-six (25.3%) of users and 17(43.6%) of non-users tested positive to malaria parasitaemia (p<0.05). Sixty-six infected mothers who received IPTp-SP, 49(74.2%), 15(22.7%) and 2(3.0%) had 1, 2, 3 doses respectively. Maternal anaemia was 12(4.6%) for IPTp-SP users and 12(30.8%) for nonusers while neonatal recorded 4(1.5%) and 5(13.5%) respectively (p<0.05). The birth-weight of the babies weighing <2.5 kg recorded 3(1.2%) for IPTp-SP users and 6(16.2%) for non-users. Knowledge on SP showed that 239(79.7%) had good knowledge while 61(20.3%) had no knowledge and 13(4.3%), 201(67.0%) and 86(28.7%) commenced treatment on first, second and third trimesters respectively. Prevalence based on age showed that 22(15.1%) mothers within the age of 31-40 years, while prevalence based on education showed that mothers who had tertiary education has the least infection 21(18.3%). The use and compliance to IPTp-Sp is observed to reduce the prevalence and complications of malaria among the studied population. However, there are still gaps in compliance and efforts should be intensified towards total compliance which includes enforcing total compliance, availability of drugs and education of the pregnant women. Keywords: Malaria parasitaemia; preventive treatment; pregnancy.
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Background and Aim: Fascioliasis is a zoonotic disease of public importance that affects animals and man. This study was aimed at assessing Fasciola infection among goats slaughtered in Port Harcourt metropolis. Materials and Methods: A... more
Background and Aim: Fascioliasis is a zoonotic disease of public importance that affects animals and man. This study was aimed at assessing Fasciola infection among goats slaughtered in Port Harcourt metropolis. Materials and Methods: A total of 323 gallbladder and fecal samples were collected from three different abattoirs (Mile 3, Rumuokwurusi, and Trans-Amadi) between September 2015 and June 2016 and analyzed using standard parasitological method. Results: Of the 323 fecal samples, 20 (6.19%) were found to be positive for Fasciola egg. Mile 3 abattoir 17 (5.26%) had higher prevalence than Trans-Amadi abattoir 3 (0.93%) while Rumuokwurusi had no infection (Chi-square=0.11; p=0.001). Gallbladder infection was 5.57%. Trans-Amadi abattoir had the highest prevalence of 11 (3.41%) followed by Mile 3 abattoir 7 (2.17%) and Rumuokwurusi abattoir had none (Chi-square=0.91; p=0.339). Infection based on gender showed that 5.88% of female animals and 0.31% of males were ova positive. At Tran...
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AbstractA study on Schistosoma haematobium among school age children in the urban area of Abiriba in Abia State, Eastern Nigeria, was conducted between February and July 2009. Urine samples were collected and analysed for eggs of S. ... more
AbstractA study on Schistosoma haematobium among school age children in the urban area of Abiriba in Abia State, Eastern Nigeria, was conducted between February and July 2009. Urine samples were collected and analysed for eggs of S. haematobium by microscopy using the centrifugation method. The result showed an overall prevalence of S. haematobium infection to be 40.8%. More males (62.3%) were infected than females (37.7%). The difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The level of infection was reliably predicted using the logistic regression model, varied from school to school. Altogether, 390 (63.3%) of the infected individuals had a light infection. Urine samples of 408 individuals were found to be positive for both S. haematobium ova and visible haematuria, while urine samples of 162 individuals were positive only for S. haematobium but devoid of haematuria. S. haematobium was found to be the highest among the school children aged 11–14. In conclusion, S. haematobium is endemic in the...
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Aims: To assess Trichomonas vaginalis infection in a typical urban and a suburban area of Rivers state Nigeria. Place and Duration: Three research and diagnostic laboratories in Port Harcourt and its environment between January 2014 and... more
Aims: To assess Trichomonas vaginalis infection in a typical urban and a suburban area of Rivers state Nigeria. Place and Duration: Three research and diagnostic laboratories in Port Harcourt and its environment between January 2014 and April 2016. Methodology: High vaginal swab (HVS) was collected from a total of 1431 subjects and examined using a wet mount method after their consent was secured. Results: The socio-demographic data showed that out of the total of 1431 persons examined 28.09 % (402/1431) were traders and that represents the highest group followed by students 27.17 % (389/1431) while civil servants were the least in the group 12.79 % (183/1431). Among the studied group, more subjects 38.23 % (547/1431) had secondary school education followed by subjects that had tertiary school education 26.00 % (372/1431) while subjects without formal education were the least with 10.55% (151/1431). The overall prevalence of 0.63 % (9/1431) was recorded in present study with more infections in the Revelations laboratories, Diobu (Urban) 0.77 % followed by Diagnostrix laboratories, Diobu (Urban) 0.59 % while the least infection was recorded at Reliable Diagnostics, Ozuoba (Suburban) 0.50 %. Incidentally, the first two laboratories were in the urban area while the last where the least infection was recorded, was in suburban area, Original Research Article Abah; AJMAH, 6(4): 1-6, 2017; Article no.AJMAH.36011 2 showing no significant difference (p&gt;0.05). Age Prevalence showed that subjects within 15-25 years had the highest prevalence of 0.92 % (4/433) followed by subjects within 26-35 years with 0.68 % (3/440) while the least prevalence of zero per cent was recorded among subjects within 46-55 years. More widows (1.10 %) were infected followed by single girls (0.68 %) while the least prevalence was recorded among the married (0.40 %). Conclusion: The prevalence of T.vaginalis infection is low in Port Harcourt and environment and actually lower in the suburban area than the urban area. This low prevalence is suggestive of the fact that there is increased health awareness, improved personal hygiene, safer sex practices through the use of preventive measures, as a result of regular campaigns mounted to reduce HIV transmissions and other sexually transmissible diseases in Port Harcourt and surrounding environment.
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The distribution of intestinal parasitic infections among school-age children was assessed in three geographical zones (rural, semi-urban and urban) in Rivers State, Nigeria. Stool samples were collected following ethical approval... more
The distribution of intestinal parasitic infections among school-age children was assessed in three geographical zones (rural, semi-urban and urban) in Rivers State, Nigeria. Stool samples were collected following ethical approval and consent from parents and teachers of the pupils and analyzed using both wet saline/iodine and formol-ether concentration methods. A total of 3,828 stool samples were collected from school children in thirty-six primary schools from thirteen Local Government Areas of Rivers State. Of the 3,828 stool samples examined, a total of 1,059 (27.66%) were positive for different intestinal parasites. Of the geographical zones, prevalence of infection was higher in the Rural area (35.32%), followed by the Urban area (34.75%) and semi-urban (29.93%). The differences were not statistically significant ( p >0.05). Sex-related infection shows that infections occurred more among boys (35.57%) in the rural area, followed by urban (34.43%) and semi-urban (30.0%). More females (35.19%) were infected in Urban followed by Rural (34.97%) and semiurban (29.94%). This high prevalence is of public health concern hence control measures and awareness strategy to improve sanitation should be developed. Keywords: intestinal parasitic infections, distributions, geographical zones, Rivers State, Nigeria
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Background: Monitoring of malaria infection and antimalarial drug efficacy is necessary for effective case management, detection of resistance and control of the disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess malaria infection... more
Background: Monitoring of malaria infection and antimalarial drug efficacy is necessary for effective case management, detection of resistance and control of the disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess malaria infection and the efficacy of antimalarials among persons patronizing drugstores for malaria treatment in Port Harcourt and its environs, Rivers State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Whole blood was randomly collected from individuals visiting 24 drug stores for malaria treatment in three different locations in Port Harcourt and analyzed using both microscopy and rapid diagnostic techniques. Results: The overall prevalence of 22.8% was recorded out of 633 participants for (P. falciparum) malaria. Infection was highest in Mile IV (Rumueme) 30.8% followed by Rumuosi, 23.1%, and the least was D/Line area, 14.5% out of 221 participants per location respectively. The incidence of malaria in the study area was significantly different (X2 = 16.69; p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the intensity of malaria parasite infection in the study areas. Seven types of drugs were purchased to treat perceived malaria. 177 (26.7%) participants purchased coatem, 187 (28.3%) purchased Lonart. The others were Lumartem 133 (20.1%), P.alaxin 83 (12.5%), Amarla by 19 (2.9%) and artesunate by 57 (8.6%). All the antimalarial were purchased by those that tested positive. The most purchased drug was Lonart 11 (34.37%), Lumartem 25 (36.8%), and Malareich 19 (31.3%) in D/Line, Mile IV, and Rumuosi cluster areas respectively. There was a significant difference in the antimalarials purchased. Result of Follow up test shows that only 59.6% returned to be tested and they all tested negative. Conclusion: Malaria preponderance was high among studied subjects, ACT was topmost among antimalarials regularly purchased by the individuals. Conformity to the use of ACT could be said to be impressive though not yet 100%. People who are treated for malaria should be encouraged to undergo a test after treatment for effective case management and detection of resistance.
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Background: Intestinal parasites and Salmonella infections are of main public health concerns in Nigeria and the world, especially in developing countries where access to safe water and hygienic food handling practices by food handlers is... more
Background: Intestinal parasites and Salmonella infections are of main public health concerns in Nigeria and the world, especially in developing countries where access to safe water and hygienic food handling practices by food handlers is a challenge. Consequently, food-handlers play a major role in the transmission of these types of foodborne diseases. Objective: This study was to determine the preponderance of intestinal parasites and Salmonella typhi among food-handlers in selected areas in Port Harcourt. Materials and Methods: A total of 480 food-handlers (195 males and 285 females) of various educational levels were sampled. Stool samples were collected and analyses were carried out using direct smear examination and formol-ether concentration technique-adopted for investigation of intestinal parasites and deoxycholate citrate agar and Salmonella-Shigella agar for the cultivation of Salmonella typhi. Results: Of 480 food-handlers examined, comprises of 195(40.6%) males and 285(59.4%) females, - majority (85.4%) were young adults aged 20-40 years. 47.9% of them - had education above the secondary educational level. The preponderance of intestinal parasites was 48(10.0%) and implicated were Ascaris lumbricoides (41.7%), hookworm (33.3%), and Trichuris trichiura (25.0%). No intestinal protozoa were identified. Prevalence of 30(6.3%) was recorded for Salmonella typhi. Conclusion: Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and S.typhi infection is relatively low among food handlers in Port Harcourt, but indicates the important role food handlers play in the transmission of the infection. Therefore, awareness should be step-up for the food handlers to avoid escalation of these infections
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Coccidiosis is one of the most economically important diseases of poultry. This study determined the preponderance of chicken Eimeria in southern Nigeria and assessed the parasite's resistance to three anticoccidial drugs: Amprolium... more
Coccidiosis is one of the most economically important diseases of poultry. This study determined the preponderance of chicken Eimeria in southern Nigeria and assessed the parasite's resistance to three anticoccidial drugs: Amprolium hydrochloride; Amprolium hydrochloride + Sulfaquinoxaline-Sodium; and Toltrazuril. Multiplex PCR amplification of the SCAR region was used to confirm Eimeria preponderance. Resistance was assessed following the inoculation of 2.32 × 10 5 infective oocysts into broilers. Data on weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion and fecal oocyst shed were recorded. At 7 days post inoculation 9 birds per treatment were sacrificed and assessed for macroscopic lesions in four intestinal regions. Percent optimum anticoccidial activity (POAA), Anticoccidial index (ACI) and Anticoccidial sensitivity test (AST) were used to access resistance. The preponderance of Eimeria spp. were E. tenella (77%), E. necatrix (55%), E. acervulina (44%) and E. mitis (11%), with multi-species infection occurring in 55% of samples assessed. Fecal oocyst shedding was low (P < 0.05) in the medicated groups. Lesions in the cecal region were present in all infected groups regardless of treatment and accounted for 27.8% of lesion scores by severity and 37.5% of lesion scores by frequency. Overall, lesion scores were less (P < 0.05) in birds of the medicated groups compared with the infected-unmedicated group. The high preponderance of E. tenella in the field, and the occurrence of cecal lesions-caused mainly by E. tenella-despite drug administration, indicate resistance in populations of this species in our isolate. Based-on the POAA, ACI and AST values, the Eimeria isolate showed reduced sensitivity to toltrazuril.
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Background and Aim: Fascioliasis is a zoonotic disease of public importance that affects animals and man. This study was aimed at assessing Fasciola infection among goats slaughtered in Port Harcourt metropolis.
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The use of sulphadoxine pyrimethamine (IPTp-Sp) as a control measure for malaria infection has been found to prevent malaria in pregnancy. However there are still gaps in levels of compliance. This study was carried out to evaluate these... more
The use of sulphadoxine pyrimethamine (IPTp-Sp) as a control measure for malaria infection has been found to prevent malaria in pregnancy. However there are still gaps in levels of compliance. This study was carried out to evaluate these gaps in compliance to IPTp-Sp and its effects on placental and neonatal malaria in two health facilities in Rivers State, Nigeria. Three hundred consented participants were administered questionnaires, and blood samples collected from maternal peripheral blood (MPB), placental blood (PLB) and neonatal cord blood (NCB) immediately after delivery. Malaria parasitaemia and anaemia were analysed using standard parasitological and haematological methods of examination. Results showed that 83(27.7%) MPB, 66(22.0%) PLB, and 40(13.3%) NCB were positive to malaria parasitaemia cases. On IPTp-SP usage, 261(87.0%) received SP in different doses while 39(13.0%) did not (p<0.05). Sixty-six (25.3%) of users and 17(43.6%) of non-users tested positive to malaria parasitaemia (p<0.05). Sixty-six infected mothers who received IPTp-SP, 49(74.2%), 15(22.7%) and 2(3.0%) had 1, 2, 3 doses respectively. Maternal anaemia was 12(4.6%) for IPTp-SP users and 12(30.8%) for non-users while neonatal recorded 4(1.5%) and 5(13.5%) respectively (p<0.05). The birth-weight of the babies weighing <2.5 kg recorded 3(1.2%) for IPTp-SP users and 6(16.2%) for non-users. Knowledge on SP showed that 239(79.7%) had good knowledge while 61(20.3%) had no knowledge and 13(4.3%), 201(67.0%) and 86(28.7%) commenced treatment on first, second and third trimesters respectively. Prevalence based on age showed that 22(15.1%) mothers within the age of 31-40 years, while prevalence based on education showed that mothers who had tertiary education has the least infection 21(18.3%). The use and compliance to IPTp-Sp is observed to reduce the prevalence and complications of malaria among the studied population. However, there are still gaps in compliance and efforts should be intensified towards total compliance which includes enforcing total compliance, availability of drugs and education of the pregnant women.
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Background: Toxoplasmosis is a serious infection, especially among the immune-compromised people such as HIV/AIDS patients. Objectives: This study assessed the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of toxoplasmosis among HIV patients... more
Background: Toxoplasmosis is a serious infection, especially among the immune-compromised people such as HIV/AIDS patients. Objectives: This study assessed the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of toxoplasmosis among HIV patients and healthy volunteers or immuno-competent persons (IP) in Port Harcourt. Methods: A total of 400 (200 per group) randomly-selected sera were tested for IgG and IgM T. gondii antibodies using ELISA technique. CD4 cell counts were also determined. Demographic and risk factors were determined using a well-structured questionnaire. Results: Overall seroprevalence for HIV and IP using IgG and IgM toxoplasma antibodies was 36.0%, 21.5%, and 1.5%, 7.0%, respectively. The age group f 40 years and above had the highest seroprevalence of 25.3% among the HIV positive persons, while the age groups 25-29 years had the highest seroprevalence of 20.0% among the IP. Traders' positive with HIV had the highest seroprevalence of 30.0% and 0.9% for IgG and IgM toxoplasma antibodies, respectively. HIV subjects with a secondary education showed the highest seroprevalence of 20.0%. More HIV positive females were infected with toxoplasmosis 18.5%. In all, 6.7% (P > 0.05) of the seropositive patients had CD4 cell counts of less than 200 cells/µL, indicating no correlation between seroprevalence and CD4 cell counts of HIV/AIDS patients. Risk factors in this study included the history of living with pets, farming and eating improperly-washed fruits and vegetables. Conclusions: Seroprevalence of Toxoplasmosis was high among HIV patients in Port Harcourt. It is suggested that the institutions included the Toxoplasmosis test as one of the routine tests for HIV patients.
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Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus are important pathogens associated with blood. Blood transfusion is an important therapy during life-threatening conditions. However, this practice is not without risks.... more
Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus are important pathogens associated with blood. Blood transfusion is an important therapy during life-threatening conditions. However, this practice is not without risks. This study was intended to assess the prevalence of Syphilis, Hepatitis B virus (HBsAg) and HIV infections among voluntary blood donors attending a specialist hospital in the Niger Delta of Nigeria. Blood samples were obtained from 300 intending blood donors between the ages of 18-50years and screened. The result showed that syphilis, Hepatitis B virus and HIV recorded a seroprevalence of 1%, 2%, and 8.7% respectively, with the highest prevalence observed among the age group 38-47 years,- Syphilis(1%), Hepatitis B virus (0.7%) and HIV (5.7%). Nevertheless, male subjects showed a seroprevalence of 1.3%, 0.3% and 4% for syphilis, Hepatitis B virus infections respectively. While the female subjects had 0.7%, 0.7% and 4.7% respectively. Therefore, this study showed a high seroprevalence of blood transmissible infections among blood donors. As such, there should be adequate public enlightenment on the modes of transmission and prevention of these diseases in the society
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Toxoplasmosis is a neglected tropical disease with a global distribution that is estimated to infect one-third of the world's human population. This study was a comparison of ELISA and rapid Immunochromatographic tests (ICT) in the... more
Toxoplasmosis is a neglected tropical disease with a global distribution that is estimated to infect one-third of the world's human population. This study was a comparison of ELISA and rapid Immunochromatographic tests (ICT) in the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in Port Harcourt Nigeria. Eight hundred patients grouped in four categories from three Health Care Centres were randomly sampled after due ethical approval was obtained. Samples were analyzed using the Toxo IgG-IgM rapid test (ICT) and Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique. Socio-Demographic Data were obtained using well-structured questionnaires. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis based on ICT was 28.1% while that of ELISA was 34.5% both significant (P < 0.05) with a relative risk of 0.815. The diagnostic parameters of ICT versus ELISA IgG were sensitively 46.7% specificity 81.7% positive predictive value (PPV) 57.3%, Negative predictive value (NPV) 74.4 with a diagnostic efficiency of 69.6% Cohen Kappas indicate good to moderate agreement between the two tests for detecting IgG. Although ELISA is the gold standard for diagnosing toxoplasmosis, ICT being less expensive, faster with high specificity and good diagnostic efficiency in detecting IgG is recommended as a preliminary screening tool for diagnosing toxoplasmosis in remote areas and facilities because ELISA is laborious, expensive and not readily available.
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Schistosomiasis is one of the most important neglected tropical diseases in terms of morbidity and mortality and it is endemic in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of urogenital... more
Schistosomiasis is one of the most important neglected tropical diseases in terms of morbidity and mortality and it is endemic in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in four communities (Agbura, Otakeme, Otuagela, and Otuokpoti) in Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria using Filtration and Sedimentation technique. Snails collected were identified by the shape of their outer shell. Basic statistics methods and ANOVA were used to analyze the data. Out of the 276 urine samples examined, 36 (13.0%) tested positive for Schistosoma haematobium. The age-related infection showed that the age-group 10-14 years (26.9%) had the highest rate of infection, followed by 5-9 years 7 (19.4%). Age-group 50 years and above had a zero infection rate. Sex-related infection showed that an overall prevalence rate of 71.6% was recorded among males and 39.4% for females indicating that infection was higher in males than in females in all the communities; In Otuokpoti, males 8(33.3%) to females 5 (15.1%), In Otakeme, males had 6 (12.8%) than females 5 (15.6%), in Otuagela males had 7 (16.7%) than females 2 (8.7%) and in Agbura males had 3 (8.8%) than females 1 (9.1%). Primary school children had the highest 16 (21.9%) while retired civil servants had 0(0.0%). The difference was significant. Bulinus globosus was the only snail intermediate host identified in both ponds and streams. Human water contact activities observed around the water bodies were recreational activities (washing, bathing, fishing) and harvesting of freshwater snails. Variance (ANOVA) of the age-specific prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in the four communities showed no significant difference at P<0.05 (P=0.082) among the sampled population and also no significant difference at P<0.05 (P=0.55) across the infected population in the four communities. In conclusion, urogenital schistosomiasis is still prevalent and remains a public health challenge in Ogbia, Bayelsa state. It is strongly recommended that health education and the provision of safe water should be stepped up as a control measure of the infection in the area.
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Background: Malaria and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in pregnancy are of great public health importance, jeopardizing the outcome of pregnancy, affecting mother, foetus and new-born babies. Objectives: This cross-sectional study... more
Background: Malaria and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections in pregnancy are of great public health importance, jeopardizing the outcome of pregnancy, affecting mother, foetus and new-born babies. Objectives: This cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence of malaria and hepatitis B virus infections among pregnant women attending the Federal Medical Center, Owerri. Methods: Three hundred maternal blood samples were collected into anticoagulant bottles. Blood samples collected were used to determine malaria parasitaemia and HBV. Malaria parasitaemia was determined using thick and thin films stained with Giemsa staining techniques while HBV was determined using Labcon Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test strip. Results: Out of a total of 300 blood samples examined, 110(36.66%) were positive for malaria while 17(5.67%) were positive for HBV and 10 (3.33%) had co-infection. The age group 15-24 yrs had the highest prevalence of infections (45.76%) of malaria followed by 35-44 yrs (38.33%) while 45-54ys had least (30.43%). Although there was a difference in prevalence, it was not statistically significant (χ²=4.178, p=0.243, df=3).In Hepatitis B infection, age group 15-24 yrs (16.95%) had the highest prevalence of infection, followed by 25-34 yrs (4.17%) while 45-54 yrs recorded no infection and there was a statistically significant difference in prevalence across the age groups (χ²=18.581, p=0.000, df=3). The prevalence of malaria and HBV co-infection based on age indicated that 15-24 yrs had the highest prevalence 8.47% followed by 35-44 yrs (2.67%) while 25-34 yrs (1.67%) had the least prevalence. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of malaria among pregnant women in the study area and the effects could be fatal to mother, foetus and the new-born. HBV infection, Malaria and HBV coinfection were found to be relatively high. Therefore, there is the need to ensure malaria interventions such as the provision of ITNs and intermittent Preventive treatment in pregnancy for malaria during pregnancy for pregnant women. Also, regular HBV vaccination, especially for the sexually active people, is advocated in the state
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Background: Malaria and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are two diseases of major medical importance in Nigeria. Methods: The study determined the preponderance of malaria, HBV and their co-infection among 600 outpatients of three major hospitals... more
Background: Malaria and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are two diseases of major medical importance in Nigeria. Methods: The study determined the preponderance of malaria, HBV and their co-infection among 600 outpatients of three major hospitals in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, using standard microscopic method and rapid serology assay diagnostic kit. Results: Total preponderance rate of malaria, HBV, and co-infection was observed to be 41.0%, 6.0%, and 4.33%, respectively. The female gender was more infected with malaria (44.67%) than the male counterparts (37.54%), while the males were more infected with HBV (7.12%) and co-infection (5.18%) than the females with 4.8% and 3.44%, respectively. The infection rate between genders was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The prevalence of malaria was statistically high among the age group of 21-30 years (55.66%) (P < 0.05). HBV and co-infection prevalence rate was statistically the highest among the age group of 21-30 years with 11.76% and 10.3% rates of infection, respectively. Conclusions: The high rate of malaria prevalence and the presence of HBV and co-infection among the study subjects imply that these infections are threats to the human health and strategies should be adopted to help combat and control these infections.