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Background: Hypoestes rosea (family: Acanthacea), has been harnessed and utilized for treatment of several ailments. However, there is the paucity of available data on nephrotoxicity associated with this herb. Here, we investigated the phytochemical profile and toxicological effect of H. rosea on Wistar Rats. Methods: Twenty rats (weight range: 75–100 g) were assigned into five study groups, viz; (a) control (without treatment) (b) treatment group 1, orally administered with 50 mg/kg (c) treatment group 2, orally administered with 100 mg/kg (d) treatment group 3, orally administered with 250 mg/kg, and (e) treatment group 4, orally administered with 300 mg/kg of H. rosea, respectively for 28 days of four rats per group. The rats were made unconscious by using oral administration of chloroform. Cardiac punctures were made, and blood samples collected into 10 ml labeled plain container, allowed to clot and spun to harvest serum for determination of sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, urea and creatinine using colorimetric, back-titrimetric, Urease-Berthelot and Jaffe’s reaction methods respectively. Kidneys of rats were harvested, weighed and immediately fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for histological analysis. Result: Mean serum sodium (p = 0.049), potassium (p = 0.007), and urea (p

Platelets initiate hemostasis by aggregating at the site of injury and participate in ensuring endothelial integrity. A defect in this process could lead to intravascular blood loss. This case-control study sought to determine the platelet counts and indices among pregnant women in the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria. A total of 120 pregnant women as case and 60 non-pregnant women as control were enrolled for this study. Blood samples were collected in EDTA tubes, and complete platelet count and indices were carried out using an automated five-part haematology analyzer. The mean ± standard deviation of the platelets count among the pregnant women, 226.54 ± 69.76 109 cells/L was not significantly different from that of the non-pregnant women, 214.95 ± 52.22x 109 cells/L (p=0.295). There was a significant differences in mean platelets volume (MPV) of the case and control groups (p=0.036). After post-hoc test, the significant difference was between the pregnant women in 3rd trimester and the control group (p=0.014). However, there was no diffences in the mena platelets larger cell ratio and platelet distribution width in the case and control groups. Fifteen (11.0%) and 7 (12.1%) of the case and control control groups, respectively had mild thrombocytopenia. However, there was no significant association between pregnant status and thrombocytopenia (p=0.836). Based on these findngs, it can be infered that platelet count and MPV decreases while PDW increase with the progression of gestation age compared to the non-pregnant women.

Background There are no robust national prevalence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes in Nigerian women despite the high burden of cervical cancer morbidity and mortality. The objective of study This study aims to determine the pooled prevalence and risk factors of genital HPV infection in Nigeria through a systemic review protocol. Methods Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and AJOL were searched between 10 April to 28 July 2020. HPV studies on Nigerian females and published from April 1999 to March 2019 were included. GRADE was used to assess the quality of evidence. Results The pooled prevalence of cervical HPV was 20.65% (95%CI: 19.7–21.7). Genotypes 31 (70.8%), 35 (69.9%) and 16 (52.9%) were the most predominant HPV in circulation. Of the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, northeast had the highest pooled prevalence of HPV infection (48.1%), while the least was in the north-west (6.8%). After multivariate logistic regression, duration (years) of sexual exposure (OR = 3.24, 95%CI: 1.78–9.23]), history of other malignancies (OR = 1.93, 95%CI: 1.03–2.97]), history of sexually transmitted infection (OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.31–3.55]), coital frequency per week (OR = 5.11, 95%CI: 3.86–14.29), the status of circumcision of the sexual partner (OR = 2.71, 95%CI: 1.62–9.05), and marital status (OR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.16–4.72), were significant risk factors of HPV infection (p

BACKGROUND: There is the paucity of HTLV-1/-2 studies on Nigerian pregnant women despite the medical and public health significance of maternal-to-child transmission of HTLV-1/-2. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of HTLV-1/-2 infections among pregnant women attending the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), Abuja, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Blood samples were collected from consented pregnant women and analysed for ant-HTLV-1/-2 total antibodies using a commercial Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit. Pretested structured questionnaires were used to collate participants’ socio-demographic variables and risk factors of HTLV infection. RESULTS: Out of the 156 pregnant women tested for HTLV-1/-2 antibodies, 16 (10.3%) were seropositive. There was no significant association between the socio-demographic variables collated and seroprevalence of HTLV-1/-2 infection among pregnant women (p> 0.05). Pregnant women with HIV infection had a lower prevalence of HLTV-1/-2 infection than those without HIV infections (7.5% versus 11.7%). Pregnant women with multiple sexual partners had a higher risk of HTLV-1/-2 infection than those who had single (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 0.53–8.18). Women with a history of needles injury had a higher risk of HTLV-1/-2 infection than those who do not (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 0.38–4.08). The history of blood transfusion was significantly associated with HTLV-1/-2 infection (p= 0.027). However, no significant association existed between other risk factors of HTLV-1/-2 infection among pregnant women (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: Considering the 3% pooled national prevalence of HTLV-1/-2 infection in Nigeria, the seroprevalence reported in this study is relatively high. Thus, there is a need for more large cohort studies and routine screening of population at increased risk of infection.

Background Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is highly pathogenic, and clinical studies revealed that HDV infection aggravates the natural history of the underlying hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection by progression to cirrhosis that leads to early decompensation of liver function compared with HBV mono-infection. To determine the seroprevalence of HDV among HBsAg-seropositive patients and associated biochemical profiles at Maiduguri, Nigeria, a hospital-based cross-sectional study on 180 sera of patients positive for HBsAg by ELISA were evaluated for anti-HDV, hepatitis B envelop antigen, anti-HBs antibodies and liver enzyme profiles. Results HDV seroprevalence of 3.3% among 180 HBsAg-positive patients. Relatively higher seroprevalence of HDV was observed in males (4.3%) than in females (2.3%). The highest infection rate (20%) was obtained in patients ≥ 56 years. However, no significant association between positive anti-HDV seroprevalence and gender (p > 0.05). Of the 6 (3.3%) anti-HDV-positive patients, only 1 (16.7%) was positive for HBeAg while all were negative for anti-HBs antibodies. The mean level of liver enzyme level of AST and ALT of the anti-HDV-positive patients significantly differ from that of HBsAg mono-infected patients (p ˂ 0.05). However, no significant difference (p p ˃ 0.05) was found. Conclusion This study revealed a relatively low presence of HDV in HBsAg-positive patients. Furthermore, HDV-HBV co-infected patients had somewhat worse liver enzyme upregulation. This underscores the need for rapid HDV testing and treatment in HBV-infected patients.

Background Toxoplasmosis in pregnancy could induce miscarriage, congenital anomalies in foetuses and encephalitis in HIV-infected people. Hence, there is a need to determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in HIV-infected pregnant women to inform clinicians about the significance of maternal toxoplasmosis in antenatal care.AimThis study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection, associated CD4+ T-cell profile and sociodemographic risk factors among pregnant women with or without HIV infection attending the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria. MethodsThis hospital-based cross-sectional study involved blood samples collected from 160 HIV-infected and 160 HIV-seronegative pregnant women. These samples were analysed for anti-T. gondii (IgG and IgM) and CD4+ T-cell count using ELISA and flow cytometry, respectively. Sociodemographic variables of participants were collected using structured questionnaires. ResultsThe overall seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM was 28.8% and 3.8%, respectively. The seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM was 29.4% and 4.4%, respectively, among HIV-seropositive pregnant women and 28.1% and 3.1%, respectively, among HIV-seronegative women. There was no significant association between the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii-IgG and anti-T. gondii-IgM with age, gestational age, education level, parity or place of residence of HIV-infected pregnant women (P > 0.05). However, there was significant association between the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii-IgG (P = 0.03) and anti-T. gondii-IgM (P = 0.01) with education level. CD4+ T-cell count varied significantly between HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected pregnant women (P = 0.035). Conclusion In this study, the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM did not differ in HIV-seropositive or HIV-seronegative pregnant women. However, women with primary T. gondii and HIV coinfection had lower CD4+ T-cell count than those with toxoplasmosis monoinfection.

OBJECTIVE: T-helper cells (Th)-1& -2 cytokines homeostasis control or predict clinical outcome of infected persons, especially those with HIV /AIDS. This case-control study evaluated the leucocytes differentials, TNF-alpha, interleukin (IL)-2 and -10 levels among HIV infected persons with serological evidence of leishmaniasis attending University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Nigeria MATERIALS AND METHODS: Blood samples from 28 HIV infected persons who had Leishmania donovani rK39 and Immunoglobulin-G (IgG) positive (group 1), 30 age- & -sex matched HIV infected persons without Leishmania antibodies (group 2) and 30 apparently healthy persons without HIV and Leishmania antibodies (group 3). Full blood counts, TNF alpha, IL-2 and -10 levels were analyzed using automated hematology analyzer and ELISA, respectively. Structured questionnaires were used to collate biodata and clinical presentations of participants. RESULTS: Ten (35.7%) participants in group 1 were on ART, 15 (50%) in group 2 were on ART, while group 3 were ART naïve. There were significantly higher values in basophil (4.4±2.5%) and eosinophil counts (12.9±3.8%) in HIV/leishmania coinfected persons (p

For over 6 months of its emergence, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, has resulted to unprecedented global health challenge and economic uncertainties. The pandemic swiftly disseminated to almost all the countries and territories of the world. The index case in Nigeria was imported by an Italian citizen on February 27, 2020. Typical of a novel respiratory tract viral infection, the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Nigeria was slow in the first few days. However, as at 8:00 AM GMT+1, July 1, 2020, there were 25694 confirmed COVID-19 cases. With the continuous daily rise in the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, enhanced surveillance programs were immediately activated and implemented in all parts of Nigeria. Even though an inadequate number of persons have been tested so far, the government of Nigeria has been activating public health laboratories to scale up its testing capacity. Due to the impact of partial lockdown and curfew in most states of Nigeria, the government has been able to provide some form of palliatives to vulnerable populations. This study aims to review and present the various public health and socioeconomic responses and challenges of the COVID19 pandemic in Nigeria. This reflects the efforts and successful steps taken to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in Nigeria.

Background: Entameba histolytica (E. histolytica), the etiological agent of intestinal amebiasis poses significant community health concern especially in pregnant woman due to their physiological status. Pregnancy-induced immunodeficiency can lead to reduced IgA activities which makes pregnant women susceptible to penetration of intestinal mucosal linings and placental barrier especially by E. histolytica. Objective of studyThis study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal amebiasis among pregnant women with acute diarrhea (˂3 days post onset) attending University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Maiduguri, Nigeria.Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 randomly selected acute diarrheic pregnant women attending UMTH. Fresh fecal samples were collected and immediately analyzed microscopically for E. histolytica oocytes using iodine wet preparation method. Structured questionnaires were used to assess sociodemographic variables and risk factors for amebiasis. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 (IBM, California Inc., USA).Results: Out of the 200 fecal samples analyzed for E. histolytica, 10 (5%) were positive. Those infected by moderate E. histolytica cysts had the highest occurrence rate, 4 (40%) and least by those infected by many E. histolytica cysts, 1 (10%). E. histolytica infection was associated with rural residence (OR=6.86 [95% CI:1.42-33.2]), lower Socioeconomic status (OR=22.0 [95% CI: 4.69-103.1]) and primigravity (OR= 5.76 [95% CI:1.19-27.8]) (p˂0.05). Drinking water from borehole (OR=0.24 [95% CI: 0.06-0.95], p=0.043) and large household (OR=0.1 [95% CI: 0.02-0.41], p=0.001) were significant risk factors of intestinal amebiasis.Conclusion: The results indicate that E. histolytica infection is one of the etiological agents of acute diarrhea in study participants. Its recommended that pregnant women should avoid risk factors for intestinal amebiasis identified in this study. Keywords: Immunosuppression, Amebiasis, Risk factors, Diarrhea.

Background and study aim: Inadequately treated water supply and unhygienic food consumption are the major sources of contracting feco-orally transmitted viral pathogens, including Rotavirus. This prospective study aimed to assess the presence of Rotavirus in sewage, underground and surface waters collected from different locations within Maiduguri Metropolis, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 170 sewage and water samples (underground and surface waters) were collected from various sources in high-density and low-density areas of the Maiduguri metropolis. A modified adsorption- elution method for concentration of enteric viruses in sewage and water samples and detection of the presence of rotavirus (if present) was done using Enzyme linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA). The viruses in water were concentrated by negatively charged membrane filtration, eluted with 0.05M Glycine at pH 11.5, and re-concentrated by centrifugation at 12,000rpm for one hour. Results: Out of the 60 domestic sewage samples collected from high-density areas, 8.3% were positive for rotavirus antigen, whereas none of the samples from low-density areas were positive. In addition, rotavirus antigen was not detected in underground and surface water samples. The temperature range of the 5 rotavirus positive samples was 23-30oC. All the 5 positive samples had alkaline pH that ranged between 8 and 9. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated the persistence of rotavirus in sewage and its possible transmission through contaminated food and poor treated water

Background and Objectives: Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) is a widespread virus with various manifestations depending on the immunologic and hematologic status of the host. Infection with the virus can cause a wide range of complications in fetus of infected pregnant women, especially those with hemoglobinopathies. This study aimed to determine association of hemoglobin electrophoretic patterns and risk of B19V infection in pregnant women. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 200 pregnant women attending University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria. The samples were screened for anti-B19V IgM and IgG. Hemoglobin patterns were determined using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits and Minicap Flex Piercing Electrophoresis system. Structured questionnaires were used to collate sociodemographic variables and associated risk factors of B19V. Results: Of 200 participants, 12 (6.0%) were positive for B19V IgM, 45 (22.5%) were positive for IgG and two (1.0%) were positive for both antibody, while 145 (72.5%) had no detectable B19V antibody. Twenty-six subjects (28.3%) with HbAA hemoglobin pattern had B19V IgG of whom, nine (12.5%) had HbAS and 11 (30.6%) had HbSS electrophoretic patterns. There was a significant association between prevalence of anti-B19V IgG and hemoglobin electrophoretic pattern of participants (P=0.037). However, no association was found between prevalence of B19V IgM and hemoglobin electrophoretic pattern, age and parity of pregnant women (P>0.05). Conclusion: Our findings revealed a high prevalence of B19V infection among pregnant women in the studied area. In addition, acute B19V seems to be associated with hemoglobin electrophoretic patterns of pregnant women. It is recommended to follow up newborns of anti-B19V IgM positive pregnant women.

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to rise and second waves are reported in some countries, serological test kits and strips are being considered to scale up an adequate laboratory response. This study provides an update on the kinetics of humoral immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and performance characteristics of serological protocols (lateral flow assay [LFA], chemiluminescence immunoassay [CLIA] and ELISA) used for evaluations of recent and past SARS-CoV-2 infection. A thorough and comprehensive review of suitable and eligible full-text articles was performed on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Wordometer and medRxiv from 10 January to 16 July 2020. These articles were searched using the Medical Subject Headings terms ‘COVID-19’, ‘Serological assay’, ‘Laboratory Diagnosis’, ‘Performance characteristics’, ‘POCT’, ‘LFA’, ‘CLIA’, ‘ELISA’ and ‘SARS-CoV-2’. Data from original research articles on SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection ≥second day postinfection were included in this study. In total, there were 7938 published articles on humoral immune response and laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19. Of these, 74 were included in this study. The detection, peak and decline period of blood anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM, IgG and total antibodies for point-of-care testing (POCT), ELISA and CLIA vary widely. The most promising of these assays for POCT detected anti-SARS-CoV-2 at day 3 postinfection and peaked on the 15th day; ELISA products detected anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG at days 2 and 6 then peaked on the eighth day; and the most promising CLIA product detected anti-SARS-CoV-2 at day 1 and peaked on the 30th day. The most promising LFA, ELISA and CLIA that had the best performance characteristics were those targeting total SARS-CoV-2 antibodies followed by those targeting anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG then IgM. Essentially, the CLIA-based SARS-CoV-2 tests had the best performance characteristics, followed by ELISA then POCT. Given the varied performance characteristics of all the serological assays, there is a need to continuously improve their detection thresholds, as well as to monitor and re-evaluate their performances to assure their significance and applicability for COVID-19 clinical and epidemiological purposes.

Objectives: Destruction of blood cells and damage to hepatocytes are the hallmark of hepatitis B viral infection. This cross-sectional study was undertaken to evaluate some hematological parameters and biomarkers of liver injury in healthy blood donors infected with the occult and overt hepatitis B attending the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) Nnewi, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 overt and 14 occult hepatitis B virus-infected blood donors were confirmed and enrolled using Roche ® COBAS q-PCR from 212 consented pooled subjects. Hematological parameters and absolute CD4+ T-cell count were determined using the Sysmex hematology analyzer and Partec cyflow counter, respectively. Determination of serum Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Alpha Feto-protein (AFP) levels were done spectrophotometrically and ELISA, respectively. Results: The mean red blood cells, hematocrit, hemoglobin, white blood cells, CD4 and platelet count in the overt group were not statistically significantly different from the occult group p>0.05. However, of the 34 infected subjects, 7 (20.6%), 6 (17.7%), 2 (5.9%), 13 (38.2%), 2 (5.9%) and 4 (11.8%) had abnormally low blood values for red blood cells, white blood cells, hematocrit, hemoglobin, CD4 and platelets respectively. The mean ALT and ALP values from the occult and overt groups were not also significantly different (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study found a decrease in the values of some blood cells. However, no significant changes in the liver enzymes were found. These infected individuals should be managed to prevent transmission of HBV infection to other people and subsequent destruction of blood cells and damage to liver cells. Future studies could focus on patients with chronic liver diseases/Hepatocellular carcinoma caused by HBV to determine the effects on the liver biomarkers and hematological parameters.

Introduction. Toxoplasmosis is a neglected parasitic infection that has economic and epidemiological significance. Data on toxoplasmosis seroprevalence among Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected pregnant women may be of obstetric and neonatal concern. Aim. The study was designed to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasmosis and associated risk factors in HIV-positive pregnant women attending the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Abuja, Northcentral Nigeria. Material and methods. This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study. A total of 160 HIV seropositive pregnant women were recruited. Blood samples were collected and tested for anti-T. gondii IgM and IgG using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Structured questionnaires were used to collate the sociodemographic variables of participants. Results. Out of the 160 of HIV seropositive pregnant women, the seroprevalence anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM were 29.4% and 4.4%, respectively. There was no significant association between anti-T. gondii and all sociodemographic variables studied (p>0.05). Conclusion. The overall result of this study revealed that the majority of pregnant women were exposed to toxoplasmosis much earlier in life. Hence, these findings will assist obstetricians and gynecologists in the early diagnosis and management of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women, especially HIV coinfected ones with IgM seropositivity.

Introduction: Human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) is associated with shorter survival of HIV co-infected persons due to masked immunosuppression. Since both retroviruses share similar routes of transmission, there is a need to determine risk factors associated with these pathogens. This study aimed to assess the risk factors associated with HTLV-1/-2 and HIV co-infected among persons attending a secondary hospital in Ningi, Bauchi State, Nigeria. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 182 HIV infected persons and analysed for anti- HTLV-1/2 IgM and IgG antibodies using commercial Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kits. Interviewer-based questionnaire were used to collate sociodemographic and risk factor data of the subjects and clinical history were obtained from participants’ medical records. Results: The seroprevalence of anti-HTLV-1/-2 IgM and IgG were 9.9% and 19.8%, respectively. Out of the 80 ART-naïve, 25 (31.3%) were IgM seropositive. Out of 102 ART-experienced, 11 (10.8%) were anti-HTLV-1/-2 IgM positive. There was a significant association between ART status and seroprevalence of anti-HTLV-1/-2 IgM (p=0.009). However, there was no significance association between seroprevalence of HTLV IgM and gender of the subjects (p=0.06). There was a significant association between the seroprevalence of anti-HTLV-1/-2 IgG and education level of subjects (p=0.039). However, no association between anti-HTLV-1/-2 IgG and other sociodemographic variables studied (p˃ 0.05). History of injury from sharp objects (aOR: 5.3, p

Background and study aim: Globally, Hepatitis-A Virus (HAV) is a major etiology of acute hepatitis. Though, enterically transmitted, there is evidence HAV being transmitted through of blood transfusion. The presence of HAV antibodies may indicate infectious threat to blood transfusion safety. In view of these, the present study was aimed to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of HAV among blood donors in three tertiary Hospitals in Sokoto State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from one hundred and sixty eight (168) blood donors >20 years. Sera from these samples were investigated for anti-HAV specific IgG and IgM antibodies using a commercial enzyme immunosorbent assay (ELISA) Kits. Structured question-naires were used to access socio-demographic variables of subjects. Results: Seroprevalence of HAV- specific IgG and IgM were 86.3.1% and 0.0%, respectively. Of 168 blood donors, 145 had previous exposure to HAV [IgG (+) IgM (-), and none had recent infection [IgG (-) IgM (+)], 23 were susceptible to HAV [IgG (-) IgM (-). There was no significant association between sero-prevalence and any of the risk factors and sociodemographic variables studied (p>0.05). Findings from this study revealed that larger proportion of blood donors are already immune to HAV infection, while none of them had active HAV infection. Conclusion: The high prevalence of Hepatitis A antibodies among the studied subject reflects a high HAV transmission rate in this area. Hence, determination of HAV should be taken into consideration before blood transfusion.

The 2019 and 2020 sporadic outbreaks of yellow fever (YF) in Sub-Saharan African countries had raised a lot of global health concerns. This article aims to narratively review the vector biology, YF vaccination program, environmental factors and climatic changes, and to understand how they could facilitate the reemergence of YF. This study comprehensively reviewed articles that focused on the interplay and complexity of YF virus (YFV) vector diversity/competence, YF vaccine immunodynamics and climatic change impacts on YFV transmission as they influence the 2019/2020 sporadic outbreaks in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Based on available reports, vectorial migration, climatic changes and YF immunization level could be reasons for the re-mergence of YF at the community and national levels. Essentially, the drivers of YFV infection due to spillover are moderately constant. However, changes in land use and landscape have been shown to influence sylvan-to-urban spillover. Furthermore, increased precipitation and warmer temperatures due to climate change are likely to broaden the range of mosquitoes' habitat. The 2019/2020 YF outbreaks in SSA is basically a result of inadequate vaccination campaigns, YF surveillance and vector control. Consequently, and most importantly, adequate immunization coverage must be implemented and properly achieved under the responsibility of the public health stakeholders.

The spread of COVID-19 worldwide continues despite multidimensional efforts to curtail its spread and provide treatment. Efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic have triggered partial or full lockdowns across the globe. This paper presents a novel framework that intelligently combines machine learning models and the Internet of Things (IoT) technology specifically to combat COVID-19 in smart cities. The purpose of the study is to promote the interoperability of machine learning algorithms with IoT technology by interacting with a population and its environment to curtail the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the study also investigates and discusses some solution frameworks, which can generate, capture, store, and analyze data using machine learning algorithms. These algorithms can detect, prevent, and trace the spread of COVID-19 and provide a better understanding of the disease in smart cities. Similarly, the study outlined case studies on the application of machine learning to help fight against COVID-19 in hospitals worldwide. The framework proposed in the study is a comprehensive presentation on the major components needed to integrate the machine learning approach with other AI-based solutions. Finally, the machine learning framework presented in this study has the potential to help national healthcare systems in curtailing the COVID-19 pandemic in smart cities. In addition, the proposed framework is poised as a pointer for generating research interests that would yield outcomes capable of been integrated to form an improved framework.

Human Parvovirus B19 (B19 V) infection is hyperendemic in Nigeria. Pregnant women are not classically immunocompromised but maybe physiologically immunosuppressed and susceptible to viral infection. However, there is a paucity of studies on the epidemiology of B19V in Jigawa State, Northwestern Nigeria. This study aims to determine the seroprevalence, sociodemographic, and risk factors of human B19V infection among present women attending antenatal clinics of Jahun General Hospital, Nigeria. Between 2 February and 30 June 2019, blood samples were collected from 200 consented pregnant women and analyzed for anti-B19V IgM and IgG using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Sociodemographic and risk factors of subjects were collated through pre-tested structured questionnaires. Data generated were statistically analyzed for the association of anti-B19V and subjects' variables studied. Overall, the seroprevalence of anti-B19V IgM and IgG among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics of Jahun General Hospital, Nigeria was 6.0% and 22.5%, respectively. There was no significant association between the seroprevalence of anti-B19V IgM and anti-B19V IgG with all the sociodemographic variables and risk factors of pregnant women (

Dengue (DEN) is a semi-neglected and dangerously re-emerging, mosquito-borne viral disease of the Flaviviridae family. Dengue virus (DENV) has been rapidly spreading for the past 6 decades, and now affects more than 50% the world’s population, especially the tropical and subtropical countries. DENV transmission and geographic expansion is expected to rise due to increased international travels, deforestation, industrialization, urbanization and climatic changes. A major control strategy for dengue is achieved through targeting the mosquito vectors, which put a significant break in the transmission of DENV to humans. For long, most dengue endemic nations relied heavily on chemical control measures, however, there were growing concerns and controversies on cases of multiple insecticide resistance. Therefore, more research interest has shifted toward studies on the use of biological control, biotechnological approaches, as potential alternatives. Indeed, dengue prevention is a key, mainly through continuous search for novel vaccines and/or improves on the potency, effectiveness, efficacy, safety, and affordability of existing ones, in order to assure protection against all serotypes of dengue, regardless of age, sex or race of people. In this chapter, we outlined and elucidated available non-insecticide based dengue control strategies that have been implemented, and/or currently being tested. We also updated information on currently licensed dengue vaccines, those in clinical trials and their public health prospects in the prevention of dengue.

Background: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) present with high morbidity and reduce patient's quality of life. There is a gross paucity of data on biofilm-producing bacteria in DFU Infection in North-Western Nigeria. The study sought to determine the biofilm-forming ability of bacteria isolates from DFUs and determine their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern in Zaria, North-Western Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study of patients with DFUs was conducted from June 2018 to February 2020. Consecutive biopsies were aseptically collected. Bacteria were isolated and identified using a Microgen kit. Biofilm forming ability and antibiogram of isolates were determined using microtitre plate and disk diffusion methods, respectively. Results: Of the 225 participants enrolled, males constituted the majority, 144 (64.0%) with 88 (36.0%) females, the median age of participants was 54 (48–60) years, and the age range was 36–77 years. A total of 172 bacteria were isolated, and 123 (71.5%) were biofilm producers. Staphylococcus aureus (26.7%) was the highest biofilm producer, while Citrobacter freundii and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia were the least biofilm producers, 1 (0.6%) each. A disproportionate resistance pattern was demonstrated among the biofilm and non-biofilm producers against the cephalosporins tested, ceftazidime (68% vs. 18%), ceftriaxone (50% vs. 8.0%) and cefotaxime (21% vs. 0.0%). About 46% and 68% of the biofilm producers were resistant to gentamycin and ciprofloxacin, respectively. While only 2% of the non-biofilm producers were resistant to imipenem, 11% of the biofilm producers were resistant to it. Conclusion: These findings revealed a high proportion of biofilm-producing bacteria and were more resistant than non-biofilm producers.

The clinical symptoms, cellular immune response, and serum cytokine homeostasis during falciparum malaria among children living in endemic regions depend on the parasite densities. This study aims to evaluate the CD4This case-control study involved blood samples collected from 165 children (between 5 and 12 years). This comprised 45 children with mild malaria, 40 each with moderate, severe malaria and apparently healthy (control). Serum cytokines, ferritin, malonaldehyde (MDA), ascorbate, α-tocopherol levels were determined by Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA). Leucocytes differentials and CD4All malarial children had onlyBased on these findings, severe malaria was significantly associated with declined CD4

Several months after the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), cases of re-infection after recovery were reported. The extent and duration of protective immunity after SARS-CoV-2 infection is not fully understood. As such, the possibility of re-infection with SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, cases of re-infection were mainly due to different variants or mutant SARS-CoV-2. Following the fast and pandemic-scale spread of COVID-19, mutations in SARS-CoV-2 have raised new diagnostic challenges which include the redesign of the oligonucleotide sequences used in RT-PCR assays to avoid potential primer–sample mismatches, and decrease sensitivities. Since the initial wave of the pandemic, some regions had experienced fresh outbreaks, predisposing people to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 re-infection. Hence, this article sought to offer detailed biology of SARS-CoV-2 re-infections and their implications on immune response milieu, diagnostic laboratory tests and control measures against COVID-19., SARS-CoV-2 re-infection, Diagnostic challenges, Immune evasion, Infection control, COVID-19.

Background: Human non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) have been associated with certain life-threatening disorders in children. However, there is paucity of NPEV infection data in most developing countries. This study determined the 3-year prevalence of non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) among children in some Northern States of Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Duplicate stool samples were collected from 27778 children ≤15 years. These samples were processed and analyzed for characteristic NPEVs cytopathic effects (CPE) on L20B and RD cell lines. Tests were considered positive if the duplicate samples produced distinct CPE on both cell lines. Results: Of the 27778 samples processed, 3991 (14.4%) NPEVs were isolated. Participants of the male gender (14.5%) within the age range of 0-5 years (14.7%) from Yobe state (15.3%) whose samples were received in the month of June (22.2%) and in the year 2015 (18.8%) had the highest prevalence of NPEVs. June had significant risk factors of NPEVs (p˂0.001, OR=1.95 [95%CI: 1.60-2.34]). However, there was no significant association between age, sex and location of sample collection with the prevalence of NPEV (p˃0.05) Conclusions: This study revealed a relatively high prevalence of NPEVs among the study population. This calls for the need for government implementation of consistently improved water, food and environmental hygiene.

OBJECTIVES West Nile virus (WNV) is a re-emerging mosquito-borne viral infection. This study investigated the pooled prevalence pattern and risk factors of WNV infection among humans and animals in Nigeria. METHODS A systematic review was conducted of eligible studies published in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science from January 1, 1950 to August 30, 2020. Peer-reviewed cross-sectional studies describing WNV infections in humans and animals were systematically reviewed. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochrane Q statistic. RESULTS Eighteen out of 432 available search output were eligible and included for this study. Of which 13 and 5 were WNV studies on humans and animals, respectively. Although 61.5% of the human studies had a low risk of bias, they all had high heterogeneity. The South West geopolitical zone of Nigeria had the highest pooled prevalence of anti-WNV immunoglobulin M (IgM; 7.8% in humans). The pooled seroprevalence of anti-WNV IgM and immunoglobulin G (IgG) was 7.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.9 to 8.3) and 76.5% (95% CI, 74.0 to 78.8), respectively. The WNV RNA prevalence was 1.9% (95% CI, 1.4 to 2.9), while 14.3% (95% CI, 12.9 to 15.8) had WNV-neutralizing antibodies. In animals, the pooled seroprevalence of anti-WNV IgM and IgG was 90.3% (95% CI, 84.3 to 94.6) and 3.5% (95% CI, 1.9 to 5.8), respectively, while 20.0% (95% CI, 12.9 to 21.4) had WNV-neutralizing antibodies. Age (odds ratio [OR], 3.73; 95% CI, 1.87 to 7.45; p

Throughout the year 2019, Nigeria had sporadic outbreaks of yellow fever (YF), which began in the northern region of the country. Indeed, controlling the bites and population of Aedes mosquitoes and vaccination are the only effective means of preventing YF. Vectorial migration, sylvan-to-urban spillover, immunization failure and, perhaps, genetic modification of YFV could be reasons for the re-emergence of YF at the community, state and national levels. This article offers a critical review of the vector biology, YF vaccine immunodynamics and environmental drivers of YFV infections, with the aim of understanding the interplay of these factors in the re-emergence of YF and risk assessment of living in or travelling to areas where YF is endemic.

Background and Aims: Iron Deficiency (ID) is a common obstetric problem and nutritional disorder that occurs mostly in developing countries. Hence, nutritional studies are required every few years to determine the necessary healthcare interventions for pregnant women. This cross-sectional study evaluated the plasma iron, ferritin, transferrin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) levels of pregnant women referred to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 58 non-pregnant women, 22 pregnant women in the first trimester, 52 in second, and 44 in the third trimester. The plasma ferritin concentration of these samples was measured by chemiluminescence assay, while the plasma transferrin, TIBC, and iron concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma ferritin levels 0.05). Nevertheless, the mean±SEM plasma iron, ferritin, and UIBC significantly differed across the gestational ages of pregnant women (p

Lassa virus (LASV) has increasingly been recognised as a significant public-health pathogen transmitted by rodents. LASV infection leads to life-threatening Lassa fever, which has high potential for severe morbidity and mortality. There have been several scientific efforts to understand the genomics and ecological epidemiology of Lassa. However, very limited studies have focused on the short- and long-term impacts of environmental factors, human behaviours and rodent activities on LASV transmission dynamics and control. Recently, a very plausible and ideal way to address the Lassa epidemic has been considered through the One Health approach. The One Health system of intervention is capable of providing better and comprehensive information necessary to address the complex interplay between human, ecological, and environmental determinants of LASV transmission, persistence and re-emergence. Thus, the aim of this article was to review critically the impacts of various environmental factors on rodent infestations, LASV transmission and how human activities contribute to the persistence of Lassa with regard to exploring how they could be harnessed for better understanding of Lassa prevention and control through a concerted One Health approach.

Background:Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) is a major public health problem in developing countries and often fatal among pregnant women in the third trimester.Objectives:The study investigated the sero-prevalence and risk factors of HEV infection among pregnant women attendee of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri, Nigeria.Methods:The cross-sectional study was carried out between 4thJanuary 2016 to 30thMay, 2016. One hundred and eighty blood samples from pregnant women who consented and enrolled for the study were analyzed for anti – HEV IgM using a quality assured commercial Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit. Structured questionnaires were used to collate the sociodemographic characteristics and risk factor of study subjects.Results:Out of the 180 pregnant women sampled, the anti-HEV IgM seroprevalence of 13.3% was recorded. The seroprevalence was significantly higher in the age range of 31 – 35 years (26.5%) and least in age range ≤ 20 years (4.9%) (p=0.009). The highest seroprevalence was recorded in the third trimester 14.1% followed by second (p>0.05). After logistic regression, nature of toilet system, and source of water consumption were significant risk factors for active HEV infection (p˂0.05).Conclusion:Based on the 10.8 % pooled national prevalence of HEV infection in Nigeria, this study recorded a significantly high level of anti – HEV IgM seropositivity, an indication of recent and active HEV infection among pregnant women at the study area. Also, these infections are most among the pregnant women in their third trimester. HEV infection was related to personal, water and environmental hygiene.

Background: This cross-sectional study investigated the serological profile, socio-demographic characters and risk factors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among HBsAg-negative blood donors at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) Gwagwalada and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) Nnewi, Nigeria.Methods: Blood samples collected from 176 HBsAg-negative blood donors (96 from UATH and 80 from NAUTH) were screened using a commercially available HBV 5-Panel (CTK Biotech, USA) and anti-HBc IgM ELISA kits. Determination of HBV-DNA was done on 36 HBV positive and 100 negative samples using COBAS Roche Real-time qPCR. Structured questionnaires were used to collate subjects’ socio-demographic variables and risk factors of HBV infection. Results: Out of 176 samples tested, 140 (79.5%) were negative for HBV serologic markers while 36 (20.5%) were positive. The pattern of seropositivity showed that 19 (10.8%) samples were positive for anti-HBs, 9 (5.1%) were positive for anti-HBc, 3 (1.7%) were positive for both anti-HBc & anti-HBs and 5 (2.8%) were positive for anti-HBc IgM. None was positive for HBeAg and anti-HBe markers. Of the 36 HBV positive and 100 negative samples, 15 (41.7%) and 3 (3%) were positive for HBV-DNA respectively p=0.006. Not heard of HBV, no vaccination with HBV vaccines, previous blood transfusion, history of sexually transmitted diseases and visiting commercial barbers were significantly associated with HBV infection. Socio-demographic data showed that male blood donors were more infected with HBV than the females (p=0.284) and age group 26-40 years old was more affected than other age groups (p=0.015). Conclusions: The study revealed the endemicity of HBV infection and recommends that blood donors with critical risk factors be deferred from blood donation to reduce HBV transmission risk in Nigeria. Anti-HBc and anti-HBs markers could be included as screening tests for blood donors since HBV-DNA testing is not readily available and affordable.

The spread of COVID-19 across the world continues as efforts are being made from multi-dimension to curtail its spread and provide treatment. The COVID-19 triggered partial and full lockdown across the globe in an effort to prevent its spread. COVID-19 causes serious fatalities with United States of America recording over 3,000 deaths within 24 hours, the highest in the world for a single day and as of October 2020 has recorded a total of 270,642 death toll. In this paper, we present a novel framework which intelligently combines machine learning models and internet of things (IoT) technology specific in combatting COVID-19 in smart cities. The purpose of the study is to promote the interoperability of machine learning algorithms with IoT technology in interacting with a population and its environment with the aim of curtailing COVID-19. Furthermore, the study also investigates and discusses some solution frameworks, which can generate, capture, store and analyze data using machine learning algorithms. These algorithms are able to detect, prevent, and trace the spread of COVID-19, and provide better understanding of the virus in smart cities. Similarly, the study outlined case studies on the application of machine learning to help in the fight against COVID-19 in hospitals across the world. The framework proposed in the study is a comprehensive presentation on the major components needed for an integration of machine learning approach with other AI-based solutions. Finally, the machine learning framework presented in this study has the potential to help national healthcare systems in curtailing the COVID-19 pandemic in smart cities. In addition, the proposed framework is poised as a point for generating research interests which will yield outcomes capable of been integrated to form an improved framework.

To the Editor, The world is currently battling with and trying to survive yet another pandemic that threatens human health security. Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is one of the three most virulent coronaviruses (CoVs). Based on available clinical details, geriatric group of over 65 years of age and persons with chronic comorbidities such as type-2 diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular diseases and immunodeficiencies tend to rapidly develop multi-organ failure, severe COVID-19 and ultimately, death...

As the incidence of Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) continues to rise, many countries have been seeking for medical assistance such as donation or procurement of laboratory test kits and strips. These consumables are largely intended for use in the laboratory investigations of COVID-19 cases, suspected contacts, asymptomatic persons and in discharging cured persons. Thus, this article was instigated to update and remind healthcare providers and policymakers (especially those in developing countries) on the principles of sample collections, storage, transportation, laboratory protocols and networks needed for appropriate public health response against COVID-19 pandemic in Africa and other developing countries. In addition, this article presents challenges that hinder adequate COVID-19 laboratory response and discuss some possible solutions that could ameliorate these constrains.

Chikungunya (CHIK) is a re-emerging and myo-arthritogenic arboviral infection that has affected significant global population. However, CHIK is a neglected disease in Nigeria. This study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence pattern of CHIK virus infection in Nigeria. A systematic review of eligible articles was conducted from “PubMed”, “Scopus”, “Google Scholar” and “Web of Science”, between January 1980 to February 2020. Peer-reviewed articles describing CHIKV infection in cross-sectional studies were systematically reviewed. Random-effect model was used to pool the prevalence of CHIKV infection and associated sociodemographic data reported from eligible studies. In total, there were 10 published articles on CHIKV infection. Of these, 7 were cross-sectional studies, which comprised of 1347 pooled participants. The pooled anti-CHIKV IgM and IgG seroprevalence were 26.7% (95% CI: 23.2 – 30.4) and 29.3% (95% CI: 26.2 -32.6), respectively. Of the pooled studies, there were 3.8% (95% CI: 2.0-6.4) CHIKV RNA positive cases and 46.1% prevalence of CHIKV neutralizing antibodies. Of the 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria, Northeast had the highest serological evidence of CHIKV infection. There was a significance association between the prevalence of anti-CHIKV and geopolitical zones of Nigeria (χ²= 70.04; p˂0.0001). Sex (p ˂0.0001; OR= 1.87 [1.47 – 2.38]) and level of education (p ˂0.0001; OR= 2.74 [1.89 – 3.95]) were significant risk factors for pooled anti-CHIKV IgM seropositivity. However, no significant association was found with other sociodemographic variables (p ˃0.05). Although there was paucity of data on CHIKV research in Nigeria, this meta-analysis revealed a high prevalence of CHIKV infection in the country.

Objective: An estimated 75% of Nigerians are at risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) exposure. In an attempt to reduce the menace, the assessment of risk factors associated with HBV infection and general perception of infected individuals is a step in that direction. This study, therefore, identified exposure to risk factors and general perceptions associated with HBV infection in infected individuals in Zaria, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Four milliliters of blood were collected in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid container from each of 165 HBV surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive participants recruited purposively from the gastroenterology clinic of ABUTH Zaria from May to August 2017. Plasma was separated and used to screen for HBsAg with Fastep® rapid strip. Epi Info® questionnaire database was used to collate data on sociodemographics, risk factors, and perception indices. GraphPad Prism 6 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The median interquartile range age of the participants was 31.0 (25.5–39.0) years with 107 (64.8%) male participants. Sharing hair clippers, commercial pedicure, and body piercing among others were some of the risks that the study participants reported to be exposed to. One-quarter of health workers involved in the study had needlestick injury. Less than half of the study participants (47.7%) knew of hepatitis B before testing HBsAg seropositive. Knowledge of the HBV vaccine before testing and adherence was generally poor (38.6% and 44.6%, respectively). There was a significant linear relationship between the level of education and knowledge of hepatitis B. Conclusion: Considering the myriads of already established risks of HBV seen in Zaria, massive enlightenment campaigns need to be embarked on continuously through all available media, including social media.