Background: Staphylococcus aureus is known to severely compromise semen quality and sperm motility. The therapeutic challenge is compounded by the emergence of beta-lactamase-producing S. aureus strains, which confer resistance to first-line beta-lactam antibiotics, making effective treatment difficult and contributing to poor reproductive outcomes. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence and antibiotic sensitivity pattern of Staphylococcus aureus producing beta-lactamase among males with fertility problems at Federal Teaching Hospital Owerri. Study Design: The study was a prospective hospital-based cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Fertility Clinic of Federal Teaching Hospital Owerri (FTHO) from May 2025 to October 2025. Methodology: A total of 48 confirmed Staphylococcus aureus isolates were obtained from 125 positive semen cultures from males attending the fertility clinic at FTHO. The antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of the isolates were determined using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, and Staphylococcus aureus producing beta-lactamase was detected using the penicillin disc diffusion zone-edge test. Results: Thirty-three (68.8%) of the Staphylococcus aureus isolates were beta-lactamase producers. All 33 (100%) Staphylococcus aureus isolates producing beta-lactamase were resistant to penicillin but susceptible to Vancomycin. Twenty (60.6%) were susceptible to Levofloxacin and Ceftriaxone, while 10 (30.3%) were susceptible to Gentamycin and Imipenem. Conclusion: Beta-lactamase positivity was high among the S. aureus isolates from these study participants. This finding reflects concerns about antimicrobial resistance and indicates the need for microbiological screening and susceptibility testing in this patient population to guide appropriate antibiotic therapy and reduce the risk of empirical treatment failure.
Background: The goal of healthcare governance is to improve the health status of citizens. Health professionals in Rivers State demonstrated varying levels of awareness of government health programmes, with 63.6% reporting awareness overall. Aim: This study evaluated health professionals’ awareness of government health programmes, associated challenges, and future directions for government health action during the last quarter of 2025. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among consenting health professionals using a questionnaire. The information obtained was collated and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 and presented in tables and graphs. Results: A total of 893 health workers participated, comprising 429 (48.0%) males and 464 (52.0%) females, with a mean age of 35.73 ± 7.54 years. The participants included medical doctors (n = 228; 25.5%), nurses (n = 236; 26.4%), pharmacists (n = 109; 12.2%), medical laboratory scientists (n = 114; 12.8%), laboratory technologists (n = 133; 14.9%), and health administrators (n = 73; 8.2%). Overall, 568 (63.6%) were aware of government health programmes. Awareness was higher among medical doctors and nurses than among other professional groups, and the association was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Although information was available, many participants were uncertain about programme-related challenges, and a substantial proportion did not provide opinions on the government’s future direction in health. The main information sources were the workplace (n = 270; 30.2%), roadside banners/posters (n = 205; 23.0%), and social media (n = 182; 20.4%). Conclusion: Participants expressed opinions on awareness, challenges, and future directions of government health programmes. These findings provide a resource that may inform improvements in health services in Rivers State.
Background: Handwashing is essential for limiting healthcare-associated infection transmission, yet differences may persist between healthcare workers’ knowledge, attitudes, and routine practice. Aims: This study assessed handwashing knowledge, attitudes, practices, and associated barriers among healthcare workers at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 270 healthcare workers selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected in August 2022 using a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at a 5% significance level. Results: All 270 questionnaires were returned. The mean age of respondents was 29.6 years. Good handwashing knowledge was demonstrated by 61.1% of respondents, and the overall attitude grand mean was 3.34. However, 57.4% had poor handwashing practice, and only 35.2% consistently followed the WHO-recommended handwashing steps. Nearly half of respondents (48.1%) reported substituting hand sanitiser for handwashing. The principal barriers were empty soap dispensers (70.4%), inadequate clean water supply (62.6%), forgetfulness (55.6%), glove use (44.4%), insufficient hand-drying materials (42.6%), and busy work schedules (42.2%). Age was significantly associated with attitude towards handwashing, although the association was small. Conclusion: Knowledge and attitudes were generally favourable, but practice remained inadequate. Reliable supplies, accessible facilities, regular training, reminders, feedback, and compliance monitoring are needed to support sustained handwashing practice.
Aims: To compare the age-specific and geographic distribution of paediatric dermatoses among children attending dermatology clinics in two communities with differing levels of urbanisation in Southwestern Nigeria. Study Design: Multicentre retrospective descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: Dermatology clinics at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife (urban), and Federal Medical Centre, Owo (semi-urban), between January 2020 and December 2024. Methodology: Medical records of children aged ≤16 years were reviewed. Demographic characteristics and primary dermatological diagnoses were extracted and classified by aetiology and age group. Descriptive statistics, χ² tests and crude odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to compare disease patterns across age groups and study sites. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: A total of 589 children (mean age 7.9 ± 4.8 years; 53.7% male) were included. Forty-seven children (7.9%) were diagnosed with both infectious and non-infectious dermatoses. Overall, non-infectious dermatoses predominated (71.1%), with eczematous disorders (29.2%) and hereditary disorders (10.2%) representing the most frequent diagnostic categories. Fungal infections were most prevalent among school-aged children (P = 0.013), whereas viral dermatoses predominated in preschool-aged children (P < 0.001). Children attending the urban centre had significantly higher odds of infectious dermatoses (OR = 1.72, 95% CI 1.18–2.50; P = 0.004) and eczematous disorders (OR = 1.72, 95% CI 1.15–2.56; P = 0.008), while hereditary and papulosquamous dermatoses were more frequently observed in the semi-urban centre. Conclusion: Paediatric dermatoses in Southwestern Nigeria demonstrate distinct age- and geography-specific patterns, with eczematous disorders accounting for the greatest burden of dermatology consultations. The higher prevalence of infectious dermatoses among younger children and the observed geographic differences underscore the need for context-specific prevention and service planning. Integrating the early recognition and management of infectious and eczematous skin diseases into child health programmes, alongside strengthening school-based skin health initiatives, may improve paediatric dermatological outcomes in resource-constrained settings.
Background: Extremely premature infants, born before 28 weeks of gestation, have underdeveloped organ systems and are highly susceptible to complications such as infection, apnea, and feeding intolerance. Traditional NICU care often limits parental involvement, which may negatively affect infant development and increase caregiver anxiety. Family-centered nursing combined with individualized one-to-one care has been proposed to improve clinical outcomes and support both neonatal growth and parental psychological well-being. Objective: To explore the application value of one-to-one specialized nursing combined with family nursing mode in the clinical care of extremely premature infants (Extremely premature infants were defined according to the WHO criterion as gestational age less than 28 weeks, and most enrolled infants had a birth weight below 1000 g.). This study retrospectively analyzed 86 extremely premature infants from two hospitals, aiming to explore the influence of the combined nursing scheme on complication rate, growth and rehabilitation progress, as well as psychological state and nursing satisfaction of family members, so as to provide evidence-based reference for clinical promotion of high-quality neonatal nursing. Methods: A total of 43 extremely premature infants admitted to the NICU of Yulin Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital from 2016 to 2025 were selected as the observation group, and another 43 eligible extremely premature infants from Yulin Children’s Hospital were set as the control group. The control group received conventional NICU nursing, while the observation group adopted one-to-one exclusive nursing combined with family participation intervention. This study passed ethical committee approval and all guardians signed informed consent. The complication rate, physical development indexes, oxygen supply duration, full oral feeding time and hospitalization days were compared between the two groups. Meanwhile, Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) were adopted to evaluate family members’ mood and nursing satisfaction. Results: The overall complication rate of the observation group was obviously lower than that of the control group (P＜0.05). The daily weight gain, body length and head circumference of infants in observation group were higher; the time of oxygen therapy, complete oral feeding and hospital stay were significantly shorter with statistical differences (P＜0.05). After intervention, SAS and SDS scores of family members in observation group were remarkably lower, while nursing satisfaction was higher (P＜0.05). Conclusion: The combined model of one-to-one nursing and family nursing can effectively reduce the occurrence of complications of extremely premature infants, accelerate physical development and functional recovery, and shorten hospitalization time. It can also relieve negative emotions of family members, improve their nursing ability and overall satisfaction, which is worthy of clinical promotion.
Background: Bushmeat consumption remains common in many parts of Nigeria, but contact with wild animals may expose hunters, traders, handlers, and consumers to ectoparasites of public health importance and possible zoonotic infections. Despite the frequent consumption of bushmeat in many communities, there is limited information on the prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites associated with these animals in southwestern Nigeria. Aim: This study investigated the prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites associated with wild animals sold as bushmeat in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. Methods: A total of 48 wild animals belonging to five taxa were examined, including grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus), African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus), porcupine (Hystrix cristata), wild cat (Felis lybica), and bush baby (Galago spp.). Ectoparasites were collected through physical examination and combing and were identified using standard morphological identification keys. Results: Overall, 45 out of the 48 examined animals were infested, resulting in an infestation prevalence of 93.75%. Three major groups of ectoparasites were recovered: ticks, lice, and mites. A total of 165 ectoparasites were collected, including Rhipicephalus spp., Ixodes cookei, Amblyomma spp., Haemaphysalis longicornis, Haemaphysalis leporispalustris, Linognathus spp., and mites belonging to the subclass Acari. Ticks accounted for the highest proportion of recovered ectoparasites, followed by lice and mites. Among the identified ectoparasites, Linognathus spp. had the highest infestation rate, whereas Amblyomma spp. had the lowest. Grasscutters showed the highest infestation level, while bush babies recorded the lowest prevalence of infestation. A significant difference was observed in the distribution of ectoparasite groups among the examined animals. Conclusion: The high prevalence of ectoparasites observed in this study highlights the potential public health risks associated with handling and consuming wild animals sold as bushmeat. Increased awareness among hunters, traders, handlers, and consumers on safe handling practices is necessary to reduce the risk of ectoparasite exposure and possible zoonotic disease transmission.
Background: Oral candidiasis (OPC) is one of the most common opportunistic infections in people living with HIV (PLHIV), however, it remains under-documented in sub-Saharan Africa. Aims: This study aims to assess the association between OPC and CD4 cell count in HIV-positive patients in Libreville, Gabon. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Infectiology Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Libreville (CHUL), between April to October 2021. Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from April to October 2021 at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Libreville (CHUL). PLHIV aged ≥18 years with clinical suspicion of OPC were enrolled. Oral samples were cultured on CHROMagar™ Candida for species identification. Statistical analyses used Fisher's exact test, Student's t-test, and the Mann–Whitney U test (significance threshold: p<0.05). Results: Of 255 PLHIV enrolled, 205 (80.0%) had confirmed OPC. The majority were female (72.5%). Six Candida species were identified from 239 isolates; C. albicans was most frequent (55.2%), followed by C. krusei (21.8%), C. dubliniensis (10.5%), C. glabrata (9.2%), C. tropicalis (2.1%), and C. parapsilosis (1.2%). The most common clinical forms were pseudomembranous candidiasis (74.4%; n=191), angular cheilitis (63.3%; n=161), and erythematous candidiasis (53.3%; n=136). OPC prevalence was highest in WHO stage III patients (89.3%; 84/94) and in those with CD4 cell counts <200 cells/mm³ (64.4%; n=114); this association was statistically significant (p=0.03). Conclusion: C. albicans remains the dominant causative species of OPC among PLHIV in Libreville, although non-albicans Candida (NAC) species also contribute substantially. OPC is significantly more prevalent in patients with advanced HIV disease (WHO stages III–IV) and CD4+ counts <200 cells/µL. Antifungal susceptibility testing should be incorporated into routine diagnostic practice.
Background: Lymphatic Filariasis (LF), commonly called Elephantiasis, is a painful and infectious disease with extreme disabilities, social and economic burden, majorly caused by the parasite-Wuchereria bancrofti, responsible for 90% cases worldwide and transmitted by blood-sucking Culex, Aedes and Anopheles mosquitoes in rural and semi-urban areas. In Akoko and Ondo State, Nigeria, there are no data on the endemicity of Lymphatic filariasis. Therefore, this study assessed the prevalence, associated morbidities and socio-economic impact of Lymphatic filariasis. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design in four endemic areas of Akoko south-west Local Government Areas of Ondo state, Nigeria. Questionnaire data was used to evaluate specifics of LF impact on quality of life, financial burden, access to education, psychological and social involvement (LFSQQ). Nocturnal intravenous blood was collected from subjects across villages and settlements including children, between 11pm and 1am due to parasite's circadian clock and analyzed for parasite’s microfilariae by microscopy of thick blood films. Physical morbidities on limbs, breast and scrotum were examined and documented as lymphoedema, limb elephantiasis and hydrocoele. Results: Overall prevalence of Lymphatic filariasis was 22.1%, with associated morbidities of 42.4%. Hydrocoele of scrotum (66.7%), lymphoedema and limb elephantiasis were endemic in the study area. LF affected population with economic burden (P=0.01; P<0.05) was 84.8%; involving school-aged children, youth, men and women. The socioeconomic impact of LF was expressed as 16.1% as measured using LFSQQ. Hydrocoele impacted higher burden (P=0.001 P<0.05) on the affected, including children of ages 3-14years. Significant statistical relationship existed between infection and study communities (P=0.007, P<0.05), as Ugbegun and Supare were highly infected. Moreover, infection was predominant across all age-groups, although higher among males and elderly of ages 55 and above. Conclusion: The social, economic and public health impact of Lymphatic filariasis is enormous, preventing smooth education of school-aged children, deprive victims of livelihood, relationships and comfort. Hence, prompt diagnosis and immediate management of associated morbidities and disabilities through health intervention initiatives such as hydrocelectomy is advocated, with properly monitored and timely administration of preventive chemotherapy (MAM) especially in rural and endemic communities.
Background and Aims: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is one of the commonest genetic and chronic diseases in Nigeria. The chronicity of this disease, hospitalisations and interventions, incurs a high financial cost on families when out-of-pocket expenditure is made for healthcare. The aim is to evaluate the prevalence and intensity of catastrophic health expenditure among children with and without sickle cell anaemia in Yenagoa, Bayelsa state, Nigeria. Study Design: A hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was done. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Paediatrics Haematology and Out-patient Clinics of Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa between April and September 2024 Methodology: Caregivers of 60 sickle cell anaemia and another 60 caregivers of children without sickle cell anaemia were recruited for the study. Data were collected using pretested questionnaires. Data analysis was by Student T-test, Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-Square test and Fishers-exact test with significance set at P <.05. Results: Females constituted 56.7% and males 43.3% of the children with mean age of 8.0 ± 4.3 years. The annual median total direct healthcare cost on children with SCA was ₦165,190 (IQR= ₦108,895 – ₦211,395) which was not significantly different from that on children without SCA: ₦127,720 (IQR= ₦97,565 – 162,560) P=.010. The prevalence of CHE was 58.3% among the SCA group and 45% among the non-SCA group using the 10% threshold for CHE. There was no significant difference in catastrophic overshoot: 5.9% ± 19.2% versus 5.1% ± 19.5% (P=.83) and the mean positive overshoot: 14.0% ± 21.6% versus 16.2% ± 24.9% among the SCA group and non-SCA group respectively (P=.071). Conclusion: The healthcare costs, prevalence and intensity of CHE in this study were high among both groups which could affect child survival and wellbeing. There is need for robust efforts towards attainment of universal health coverage.
Introduction: Malaria is a common parasitic infection in tropical countries, affecting both the general population and hospitalized patients. In Gabon, malaria is the leading cause of emergency room visits and hospitalizations. It is in this context that we conducted our study in the dermatology department of the Libreville University Hospital Center (CHUL). This study does not aim to describe the dermatological manifestations of malaria but rather to estimate the prevalence of malaria among patients hospitalized for dermatosis in the dermatology department. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study based on the medical records of patients admitted for a skin condition to the dermatology department at CHUL between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2025 (over a 10-year period), whose thick blood smears tested positive for malaria. We also included patients who were hospitalized solely for malaria. We used Epi Info software, version 7.2, for data entry and analysis. Results: Out of 841 patient records collected, 27 patients had a positive thick blood smear. This represents a prevalence of 3.21%. The mean age was 45.44 years ± 17.87 years, ranging from 11 to 78 years. The majority of patients were female (n=15; 55.56%) and men were in the minority (n=12; 44.44%), with a male-to-female ratio of 0.8. More patients lived in a malaria-risk area (n=13; 48.14%), and few used long-lasting insecticidal nets (n=2; 7.40%). The most frequent clinical sign was fever (n=17; 62.96%). The mean trophozoite count was 16,075.85 ± 33,164.65 trophozoites/field. The mean hemoglobin level was 15.73 ± 23.69 g/dL. The mean thrombocytopenia was 224,384.62 ± 141,040.44 Giga/l. HIV-malaria coinfection was found in two cases (n=7.40%). The most frequently observed dermatoses were non-necrotizing bacterial dermohypodermitis (n=10; 52.63%) and necrotizing bacterial dermohypodermitis (n=3; 15.79%). Of the 27 patients with positive thick blood smears, 8 cases without associated dermatoses were hospitalized exclusively in the malaria ward, to alleviate pressure on the emergency department. Discussion: The prevalence of malaria varies depending on the country. A significant rate remains high in infectious disease wards. Cases of malaria persist regardless of the medical ward, hence the need for a multidisciplinary, rather than sector-specific, approach, to eradicate malaria, which is a major public health problem. Conclusion: Malaria is an infection that affects any patient, regardless of the hospital ward. Thick blood smears remain an essential test in determining the etiology of fever.
Background: Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen) is an emerging sexually transmitted infection that is frequently asymptomatic and underdiagnosed. Local data on its occurrence alongside high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection remain limited in Nigeria. Aim: To determine the prevalence of Mgen among asymptomatic women with positive HPV screening and compare it with that of age-matched HPV-negative controls. Study Design: Comparative, cross-sectional, community-based study nested within a larger cervical cancer and HPV screening programme. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Ikire, Southwestern Nigeria, from February 2023 to July 2024. Samples were stored at -80°C at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex. Methods: High vaginal swab samples were obtained by self-sampling from sexually active women aged 25-49 years. A total of 186 banked samples were selected, comprising 93 randomly selected HPV-positive women and 93 purposively selected, age-matched HPV-negative controls. Mgen was detected using the ScreenFire Zebra BioDome assay. Results: The mean age was 35.10 ± 7.063 years. Mgen was detected in 8 of 92 HPV-positive women (8.7%) and 2 of 91 HPV-negative controls (2.2%), giving an overall prevalence of 5.5%. Mgen positivity was fourfold higher among HPV-positive women than among controls (OR = 4.238, 95% CI = 0.875-20.533), although the association was not statistically significant (p = 0.052). Mgen was significantly associated with high- to moderate-risk HPV strains (p = 0.048), but not with HPV-16 (p = 0.330). Conclusion: Mgen co-infection occurred among women with HPV infection in this rural community and was more frequent among HPV-positive women.
Antifungal resistance represents a threat to public health. The widespread use of antifungals in the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis among HIV patients raises the risk of emergent resistant Candida species. The objective of this study was to identify Candida strains in people living with HIV and to determine their susceptibility to a range of antifungal agents in Libreville, Gabon. From April to October 2021, people living with HIV with oropharyngeal candidiasis were recruited in the Centre hospitalier universitaire de Libreville, in Gabon. Candida species strains were cultured on Chromatic Candida agar. Antifungal drug (Fluconazole, Miconazole, Ketoconazole, Miconazole, Clotrimazole and amphotericin B) susceptibility of Candida was tested according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) M44-A procedure. A total of 239 Candida sp. isolates were collected from HIV patients. C. albicans was the most frequent species (55.2%). Among non-albicans Candida species (n=107/239, 44.8%), C. krusei was the predominant species (n=52; 21.8%), followed by C. dubliniensis (n=25/239, 10.5%). C. albicans species exhibited resistance to fluconazole (58.4%) and miconazole (68.5%) in more than half of the isolates. Over 60% of C. dubliniensis isolates also showed resistance to fluconazole and to ketoconazole. The present study highlights a significant prevalence of non-albicans Candida as the cause of oropharyngeal candidiasis in Gabonese HIV-infected patients and a significant proportion of Candida sp. resistant strains.
Background: Malaria persists as a major public health challenge in Cameroon, particularly in rural highland agro-ecological zones affected by unique environmental conditions and the ongoing Anglophone socio-political crisis since 2016 Aim: To determine the epidemiology and Plasmodium species prevalence in the western highlands of the Northwest Region of Cameroon. Study Design: The study was a community-based study with a cross-sectional study design. Place and Duration of Study: Ndop (Ngoketunjia division) and Nkambe (Donga Mantung division) from April 2024 to March 2025. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between April 2024 and March 2025, enrolling 966 participants. Socio-demographic and behavioural data were collected using structured questionnaires. Venous blood samples were analysed by microscopy and real-time PCR to determine parasite prevalence, density, and species distribution. Statistical analyses included Chi-square, Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis, and logistic regression, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Malaria prevalence among participants was 31.9% (308/966), with the 11-20 years age group most affected (36.1%). University graduates recorded the highest prevalence (37.2%), followed by civil servants (36.1%) and retired individuals (34.5%). Use and ownership of LLINs showed no statistically significant association with parasite density. Non‑users had a higher geometric mean parasitaemia density (379.11 parasites/µL; p=0.676). Participants living in favourable vector breeding environments recorded an even higher mean density (417.12 parasites/µL; p=0.118). Age‑specific analysis revealed the highest mild parasitaemia in the 11–20 years age group (32.4%; p=0.382). Moderate parasitaemia was most common in the 6–10 years age group (6.5%; p=0.356). None of these associations reached statistical significance. Plasmodium falciparum was the predominant species among positive cases (66.9%). Plasmodium malariae had the lowest prevalence (12.3%). Conclusion: Malaria remains highly prevalent in Cameroon’s western highlands, with geographic variation and behavioral risk factors sustaining transmission. Strengthened vector control, improved LLIN usage, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups are essential.
Background: In sub-Saharan Africa, gestational malaria and intestinal helminth infections are highly prevalent, and their co-infection constitutes a major public health concern. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium and intestinal helminths co-infection among pregnant women attending the Mother and Child Hospital in N’Djamena. Study Design: The study involved pregnant women presenting to the Gynecology Department for antenatal care or for the management of pregnancy-related complications. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on 205 participants. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in the city of N’Djamena from June to July 2025. Methodology: Stool samples were examined using both quantitative and qualitative Kato-Katz methods, while blood samples were analyzed using two techniques : the Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) and the thick blood smear. Chi-square (χ²) tests were used to compare the prevalence of the different parasitic species. Results: A total of 135 pregnant women (65.85%) tested positive for Plasmodium, 57 (27.80%) for intestinal helminths, and 23 (11.21%) were co-infected with both Plasmodium and intestinal helminths. The prevalences of Schistosoma mansoni, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale, Trichuris trichiura, Enterobius vermicularis, and Necator americanus were 14.15%, 7.80%, 2.93%, 1.95%, 0.49%, and 0.49%, respectively. Three types of co-infection were observed : Plasmodium + S. mansoni, Plasmodium + A. lumbricoides, and Plasmodium + A. duodenale, with prevalences of 6.34%, 3.41%, and 1.46%, respectively. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first in Chad to highlight the issue of Plasmodium–intestinal helminths co-infection among pregnant women. These findings highlight the need for integrated malaria and helminth control strategies among pregnant women in Chad.
Introduction: Hypertension (HTN) in middle-aged adults represents a major but poorly documented challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. In Gabon, no study has specifically characterised the HTN profile in adults aged 40-59 years. Aim: This study describes the epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic features of hypertensive patients in this age group at the University Hospital of Libreville. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from January 2019 to January 2023 in the Cardiology Department of the CHU de Libreville. All patients aged 40-59 years with known or newly diagnosed HTN were included. Categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test; continuous non-normally distributed variables by the Mann-Whitney U test. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Among 807 hypertensive patients, 411 (50.9%) were middle-aged adults, with a median age of 51 years [IQR 46-56] and a female predominance (65.9%). Grade III HTN was observed in 30.2% of patients. Systolo-diastolic HTN predominated (63.3%). At least one target organ damage was documented in 17.8% of patients: stroke in 9.2%, heart failure in 5.4%, and renal failure in 4.9%. Calcium channel blockers (52.1%), ACE inhibitors (46.5%) and thiazide diuretics (40.6%) were the most frequently prescribed drugs; dual therapy was the predominant regimen (41.1%). Therapeutic rupture was recorded in 25.8% and was significantly associated with HTN grade (p < 0.001), reaching 39.5% in grade III patients. Conclusion: Middle-aged adults constitute the largest group of hypertensives in Libreville (50.9%), with severe HTN in nearly one-third and significant target organ damage in nearly one-fifth. The high rate of therapeutic rupture, disproportionately concentrated in grade III patients, underscores the urgent need for structured adherence programmes in this professionally active population.
Background: Scabies is an intensely transmissible ectoparasitic skin infestation that continues to cause significant morbidity, particularly in populations with limited healthcare resources. Although topical permethrin 5% remains the standard first-line treatment, its clinical success is often reduced due to incorrect application techniques, frequent reinfestation, and the growing concern of therapeutic resistance. Recent evidence suggests that incorporating oral ivermectin alongside topical permethrin may enhance treatment outcomes with a promising future. Aims: The present study was undertaken to comparatively assess the efficacy and safety of permethrin and ivermectin administered independently and in combination among patients diagnosed with scabies. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out in several private medical clinics located in Gazipur, Bangladesh, over six months. A total of 150 patients aged between 18 and 60 years with a confirmed diagnosis of scabies were enrolled and randomly divided into three treatment arms. Participants in Group A were treated with topical 5% permethrin cream, Group B received a single oral dose of ivermectin at 200 μg/kg body weight, while Group C was administered both permethrin and ivermectin concurrently. Clinical assessments were performed weekly over a four-week follow-up period. In instances where complete resolution was not observed, the assigned therapeutic regimen was repeated once after the first week. Treatment effectiveness and the occurrence of adverse drug reactions were systematically evaluated throughout the study duration. Results: Successful clinical response was achieved in 70% of patients treated with permethrin alone, 66% of those receiving ivermectin monotherapy, and 88% of patients managed with combination therapy. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant superiority of the combined regimen compared to either monotherapy. At the completion of the first and fourth weeks, cure rates were recorded as 70% and 92% in Group A, 66% and 86% in Group B, and 88% and 97% in Group C, respectively, further highlighting the enhanced effectiveness of the dual-drug approach. Adverse effects were reported in 6% of patients in the permethrin group, 4% in the ivermectin group, and 8% in the combination group, which was higher than their single use; however, these events were mild in nature, transient, and did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the combined use of topical permethrin and oral ivermectin offers superior therapeutic efficacy compared with either agent used alone in the management of scabies, despite a marginally higher incidence of mild adverse effects.
Background: Co-infections may complicate malaria management and contribute to poorer clinical outcomes in hospitalised children. In the Republic of Congo, malaria remains the primary cause of paediatric hospitalisation, yet the epidemiology of co-infection in this context has not been systematically described. Objective: To investigate the prevalence and associated sociodemographic factors of co-infection among children hospitalised with P. falciparum malaria in Brazzaville. Methods: A retrospective hospital-based observational study was conducted in 2023 at the Brazzaville University Hospital. Children aged ≤15 years with microscopically confirmed P. falciparum malaria with or without documented co-infection or comorbidity were included. Multivariable logistic regression identified sociodemographic factors independently associated with co-infection. Results: Among 441 children enrolled (median age 48 [IQR 15-96] months), co-infection or comorbidity was identified in 16.8% (74/441). Co-infected children were more frequently younger than five years (64.9% vs 52.3%; p=0.048), originated more often from densely populated central arrondissements (41.4% vs 25.1%; p=0.008), and had longer consultation delays (4 [IQR 2-7] vs 3 [IQR 2-5] days; p=0.016). Parasitaemia was significantly higher in co-infected children (12,600 vs 6,300 parasites/µL; p< 0.001), and co-infection was more frequent among children with WHO-defined severe malaria (51.4% vs 33.5%; p=0.005). In multivariable analysis, age below five years (aOR 1.71; 95% CI 1.01-2.90) and residence in central arrondissements (aOR 1.90; 95% CI 1.12-3.23) remained independently associated with co-infection. Conclusion: These findings support systematic assessment for co-infections in hospitalised children with malaria, particularly among younger children and those living in densely populated urban areas.
Background: The Philippines is currently experiencing one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics globally, with a marked increase in cases over the past two decades, particularly among young populations. Understanding long-term epidemiologic trends and youth vulnerability is essential for guiding effective public health responses. Methods: This study employed a longitudinal descriptive-analytic design using secondary data from national HIV surveillance systems and international health reports. Data spanning 1984 to 2025 were systematically collected from sources including the Philippine Department of Health, UNAIDS, and WHO. Key variables analyzed included annual HIV case counts, age and sex distribution, geographic patterns, and modes of transmission. Trends were examined descriptively, with particular emphasis on individuals aged 15-24 years. Results: The findings demonstrate a significant rise in HIV cases, particularly after 2010, with cumulative cases exceeding 160,000 by 2025. The epidemic is highly concentrated among males, accounting for over 90% of cases, and disproportionately affects young individuals aged 15-24 years. Transmission dynamics have shifted toward predominantly male-to-male sexual contact, while urban regions such as Metro Manila and Central Visayas remain major hotspots. Persistent gaps in testing, treatment, and viral suppression were also identified, alongside behavioral and structural drivers including stigma and limited access to prevention services. Conclusion: The HIV epidemic in the Philippines is characterized by rapid growth, increasing youth vulnerability, and evolving transmission patterns. Targeted, youth-centered, and culturally sensitive interventions are urgently needed to address gaps in prevention and care and to mitigate the long-term public health impact.
Background: Malaria in pregnancy remains a major public health problem in Nigeria, contributing significantly to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Despite the effectiveness of Intermittent Preventive Treatment in pregnancy with Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP), its uptake remains low due to weak antenatal care (ANC) systems and inadequate health education. Aim: This study aims to assess the effect of health system strengthening on IPTp-SP uptake in Osun State, Nigeria. Methods: A non-equivalent control-group quasi-experimental design was employed, with baseline and endline facility-based surveys conducted in three secondary health facilities across Osun State. The intervention was implemented at State Specialist Hospital, Asubiaro, while State Hospital Ede and State Hospital Ilesa served as control sites. A total of 250 pregnant women aged 18–49 years who had received at least one dose of IPTp-SP were recruited using systematic sampling. The intervention, conducted over eight weeks, included structured health education, provider training, improved data documentation using NHMIS registers, WhatsApp-based reminders, and logistical support for SP administration. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires via KoboCollect and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: At baseline, both groups showed poor knowledge of malaria and IPTp-SP. Following the intervention, the intervention group demonstrated a marked improvement in knowledge of malaria causation, risk during pregnancy, and IPTp-SP use, reaching 100% correct responses in key domains, while the control group showed minimal change. Conclusion: Health system strengthening through structured ANC education improves knowledge of malaria and IPTp-SP. Integrating such education into routine ANC is essential for improving IPTp-SP uptake and reducing malaria in pregnancy.
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a multisystem disorder with increasing evidence of neurological and sensory involvement beyond its primary respiratory manifestations. Emerging studies highlight the vestibular system as a potential target, with post-infection patients frequently reporting dizziness, vertigo, and tinnitus, raising concerns about long-term otoneurological complications. Aims: The study aims to investigate the prevalence of vestibular and systemic symptoms in immunized individuals, analyzing the statistical association between a history of COVID-19 infection and otoneurological deficits. Study Design: Observational, analytical cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Community of Ribeirão Preto/SP, between May and September 2024. Methodology: A total of 387 individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 were included. Data were collected via a structured electronic questionnaire. Inferential analysis used the Pearson Chi-square Test (P < .05). Results: The sample had a mean age of 24.9 years, with 63.8% reporting prior infection. History of the disease was strongly associated with sensory and motor manifestations (p < .05), notably loss of smell/taste (51.8%), loss of balance (8.1%), and dizziness. Tinnitus and dizziness were significantly associated (P < .001) with fatigue (94.6%), headache (87.8%), and blurred vision (18.9%). Conclusion: COVID-19 has a significant impact on the vestibular system. The interrelation with cognitive symptoms suggests prolonged neuroinflammation, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary rehabilitation.
