Search

Truck drivers are a well recognized high risk population for sexually transmitted diseases. Prior to start-up of a health care program and an information/education campaign, a cross-sectional study using the unlinked, anonymous screening method was carried out to assess seroprevalence of HIV and syphilis infections in truck drivers in Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. During the month of November 1994, 236 truck drivers were recruited at a cotton-producing factory. The prevalence of HIV infection was 18.6% and the prevalence of syphilis was 9.3%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed a statistically significant association between HIV infection and the following factors: age under 30 years, claimed systematic use of condoms, and previous genital ulcers. These findings suggest that truck drivers are highly exposed to the risk of contracting and disseminating HIV infection due to their high mobility and the high incidence of sexually transmitted diseases among their ranks. Prevention of HIV infection in truck drivers in Burkina Faso will require education to promote systematic use of condoms at each sexual contact as well as screening and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases at truck stops.

Authors report on epidemiologic, bacteriology and therapeutic data related to 1991 cholera outbreak in Benin in the general context of the 7th world pandemic. 7474 cases were notified from all over the country. Vibrio cholerae 01, El Tor biotype, was identified in many patients stools and in the surroundings. Control measures implemented in this situation are described: early parenteral and mainly oral rehydration, antibiotic treatments for patients and contacts, systematic home control around cases, wells disinfection and general hygiene promotion, mobilization of the Civil Service Authorities and population education. Authors conclude that strict epidemiologic monitoring is necessary in epidemic circumstances as well as during endemo-sporadic period.