Pub Date : 2024-07-15DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i7361
R. S R, S. B S, Shaiju S Dharan, Dhanya Dharman
Background: Peritoneal tuberculosis (PTB) is one of the most challenging forms of extra pulmonary tuberculosis. Abdominal TB cases make up above 3% of all extra pulmonary TB as per the Index TB Guidelines. PTB is commonly due to reactivation of latent tuberculosis in the peritoneum. Numerous cases were still misdiagnosed due to nonspecific presentation. The golden standard for diagnosis is laparoscopic biopsy. Presenting signs and symptoms of PTB are unspecific such as ascites, abdominal pain and distension, fever, weight loss, diarrhea/constipation. Peritoneal tuberculosis is a significant cause of ascites in developing countries. The causative agent of peritoneal tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Case Presentation: In this case study, a 52 year old male had complaints of progressive abdominal distension and fever for 2 weeks. Patient underwent diagnostic paracentesis, upper and lower GI endoscopy, biopsy and gene xpert to confirm peritoneal tuberculosis. Patient with peritoneal TB have gradually progressive abdominal swelling due to ascites and abdominal pain. Conclusion: Peritoneal tuberculosis should be considered in differential diagnosis. Differential diagnosis, especially in the developing countries or under developed countries. This case highlights the easy diagnosis of the condition other than the other case reports.
{"title":"A Case Report on Peritoneal Tuberculosis in an Immunocompromised Patient","authors":"R. S R, S. B S, Shaiju S Dharan, Dhanya Dharman","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i7361","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i7361","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Peritoneal tuberculosis (PTB) is one of the most challenging forms of extra pulmonary tuberculosis. Abdominal TB cases make up above 3% of all extra pulmonary TB as per the Index TB Guidelines. PTB is commonly due to reactivation of latent tuberculosis in the peritoneum. Numerous cases were still misdiagnosed due to nonspecific presentation. The golden standard for diagnosis is laparoscopic biopsy. Presenting signs and symptoms of PTB are unspecific such as ascites, abdominal pain and distension, fever, weight loss, diarrhea/constipation. Peritoneal tuberculosis is a significant cause of ascites in developing countries. The causative agent of peritoneal tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. \u0000Case Presentation: In this case study, a 52 year old male had complaints of progressive abdominal distension and fever for 2 weeks. Patient underwent diagnostic paracentesis, upper and lower GI endoscopy, biopsy and gene xpert to confirm peritoneal tuberculosis. Patient with peritoneal TB have gradually progressive abdominal swelling due to ascites and abdominal pain. \u0000Conclusion: Peritoneal tuberculosis should be considered in differential diagnosis. Differential diagnosis, especially in the developing countries or under developed countries. This case highlights the easy diagnosis of the condition other than the other case reports.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"9 11","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141648163","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-06-04DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6355
Henry Chiagozie Igwenagu, N. Igboeli, Somtochukwu Maria-regina Nwajiobi, Samuel Ebuka Boniface, S. C. Ofili, Peterkings Eriuroro Jokoh, Innocent Jephereson Emeka, Micheal Chinyem Okonkwo, C. Iyi, Evaristus Jideofor Ugboma
Aims: The prevalence of self-medication worldwide has been on the increase especially with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though self-medication can reduce pressure on the healthcare, the seeming downsides is overwhelming especially with the lockdown in the COVID-19 era. This study is thus set to understand the prevalence and nature of self-medication against COVID-19 among Individuals in Nsukka Town. Methods: A cross-sectional survey based on descriptive non-experimental research designed to investigate the prevalence and practices of self-medication against COVID-19 was conducted within the Nsukka town of Enugu state, Nigeria. A 20-item structured, self-administered questionnaire was administered to a population consisting of Health workers, Road Transport workers and market women. Microsoft Excel 2016 and SPSS version 21.0 were used to analyze the data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to summarize the data. Results: A total of 840 responses were received. Participants aged 35-44 (262, 29.6%) and males (592, 67%) were the highest in the study. A 38.0% of the respondents have a tertiary education certificate while a 36.5% are traders. Nearly half (45.5%) of the participants were married. Participants indulgence in general self-medication (439, 49.7%) was higher than indulged in self-medication to prevent COVID-19 (415, 46.9%). Most self-medication was done largely to prevent COVID-19 infection. Among the drugs commonly self-medicated are dexamethasone (6.2%) and vitamin C (6%) closely followed prednisolone (3.8%). A few of the participants had “no trust in doctor” (1.8%) while an equal number “have medicines of family members” (1.8%). Conclusion: Approximately half of the respondents reported to have self-medicated to prevent COVID-19. Dexamethasone and Vitamin C were most commonly used drugs. The only factor associated with COVID-19 self-medication was gender where being a female was associated with self-medicating against COVID-19. Concerted efforts are needed to educate the public on the dangers of self-medication and the need to access medical attention and information from healthcare professionals during pandemics.
{"title":"Self Medication Against COVID19 Infection: Assessment of Practices among Residents in a Semi Urban Nigerian Community","authors":"Henry Chiagozie Igwenagu, N. Igboeli, Somtochukwu Maria-regina Nwajiobi, Samuel Ebuka Boniface, S. C. Ofili, Peterkings Eriuroro Jokoh, Innocent Jephereson Emeka, Micheal Chinyem Okonkwo, C. Iyi, Evaristus Jideofor Ugboma","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6355","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6355","url":null,"abstract":"Aims: The prevalence of self-medication worldwide has been on the increase especially with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though self-medication can reduce pressure on the healthcare, the seeming downsides is overwhelming especially with the lockdown in the COVID-19 era. This study is thus set to understand the prevalence and nature of self-medication against COVID-19 among Individuals in Nsukka Town. \u0000Methods: A cross-sectional survey based on descriptive non-experimental research designed to investigate the prevalence and practices of self-medication against COVID-19 was conducted within the Nsukka town of Enugu state, Nigeria. A 20-item structured, self-administered questionnaire was administered to a population consisting of Health workers, Road Transport workers and market women. Microsoft Excel 2016 and SPSS version 21.0 were used to analyze the data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to summarize the data. \u0000Results: A total of 840 responses were received. Participants aged 35-44 (262, 29.6%) and males (592, 67%) were the highest in the study. A 38.0% of the respondents have a tertiary education certificate while a 36.5% are traders. Nearly half (45.5%) of the participants were married. Participants indulgence in general self-medication (439, 49.7%) was higher than indulged in self-medication to prevent COVID-19 (415, 46.9%). Most self-medication was done largely to prevent COVID-19 infection. Among the drugs commonly self-medicated are dexamethasone (6.2%) and vitamin C (6%) closely followed prednisolone (3.8%). A few of the participants had “no trust in doctor” (1.8%) while an equal number “have medicines of family members” (1.8%). \u0000Conclusion: Approximately half of the respondents reported to have self-medicated to prevent COVID-19. Dexamethasone and Vitamin C were most commonly used drugs. The only factor associated with COVID-19 self-medication was gender where being a female was associated with self-medicating against COVID-19. Concerted efforts are needed to educate the public on the dangers of self-medication and the need to access medical attention and information from healthcare professionals during pandemics.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"4 10","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-06-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141265900","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Knowledge of the risk factors of chronic kidney disease can assist in early detection of the disease and in the reduction of the incidence of complications. If people are aware of the risk factors for developing chronic kidney disease, they may engage in or adopt certain lifestyle changes that can prevent or delay development of chronic kidney disease and its complications. The objective of the study was designed to determine the knowledge of the associated risk factors of chronic kidney disease among secondary school teachers in Anambra State. Six purposes and research questions and five hypotheses guided the study. The research design to be adopted for this study is the cross-sectional survey design; the area of this study is Anambra State of Nigeria; the population of the study comprised of all 276 public secondary schools in Anambra State; the population of the teachers in all the schools was 6337. The sample size was 399 teachers both male and female; this was determined using the 'Yaro Yamane' formula for a finite population. The instrument for data collection for this study was a knowledge test which was adapted and developed from two validated knowledge tests. The result of the study showed that the teachers had high knowledge of associated risk factors of chronic kidney disease. Based on the findings, conclusions and recommendations were made; Continuous teaching through health education is needed for teachers in the urban areas to increase their knowledge of CKD; as well as continuous health education among the teachers in the rural areas to sustain their high knowledge of CKD.
{"title":"Knowledge of Associated Risk Factors of Chronic Kidney Disease among Secondary School Teachers in Anambra State Nigeria","authors":"J.O. Okafor, Perpetua Nzube, Anene, Nnaemezie Nkiru Onyinyechukwu","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6353","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6353","url":null,"abstract":"Knowledge of the risk factors of chronic kidney disease can assist in early detection of the disease and in the reduction of the incidence of complications. If people are aware of the risk factors for developing chronic kidney disease, they may engage in or adopt certain lifestyle changes that can prevent or delay development of chronic kidney disease and its complications. The objective of the study was designed to determine the knowledge of the associated risk factors of chronic kidney disease among secondary school teachers in Anambra State. Six purposes and research questions and five hypotheses guided the study. The research design to be adopted for this study is the cross-sectional survey design; the area of this study is Anambra State of Nigeria; the population of the study comprised of all 276 public secondary schools in Anambra State; the population of the teachers in all the schools was 6337. The sample size was 399 teachers both male and female; this was determined using the 'Yaro Yamane' formula for a finite population. The instrument for data collection for this study was a knowledge test which was adapted and developed from two validated knowledge tests. The result of the study showed that the teachers had high knowledge of associated risk factors of chronic kidney disease. Based on the findings, conclusions and recommendations were made; Continuous teaching through health education is needed for teachers in the urban areas to increase their knowledge of CKD; as well as continuous health education among the teachers in the rural areas to sustain their high knowledge of CKD.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"11 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-06-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141273665","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-06-02DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6354
Flavia Castelino, Diana Hephzibah, D. C, Shilpa Rani R, Geethanjali. S, Shilpa H M, Divya V, Zahid Ahmad Wani
Introduction: Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, pose a significant concern in critically ill patients due to prolonged immobility and complex medical conditions. Objective: This review examines the evidence supporting various nursing interventions to prevent pressure ulcers in critically ill patients. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and 2023. Key interventions included regular repositioning, specialized mattresses and cushions, skin care protocols, nutritional support, and patient and staff education. Results: The evidence supports a multifaceted approach, including regular repositioning, specialized support surfaces, comprehensive skin care, nutritional support, and education, in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcers in critically ill patients. Conclusion: Implementing evidence-based nursing interventions can significantly reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers in critically ill patients, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach to prevention.
{"title":"Nursing Interventions to Prevent Pressure Ulcers in Critically Ill Patients: A Review of the Evidence","authors":"Flavia Castelino, Diana Hephzibah, D. C, Shilpa Rani R, Geethanjali. S, Shilpa H M, Divya V, Zahid Ahmad Wani","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6354","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6354","url":null,"abstract":"Introduction: Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, pose a significant concern in critically ill patients due to prolonged immobility and complex medical conditions. \u0000Objective: This review examines the evidence supporting various nursing interventions to prevent pressure ulcers in critically ill patients. \u0000Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and 2023. Key interventions included regular repositioning, specialized mattresses and cushions, skin care protocols, nutritional support, and patient and staff education. \u0000Results: The evidence supports a multifaceted approach, including regular repositioning, specialized support surfaces, comprehensive skin care, nutritional support, and education, in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcers in critically ill patients. \u0000Conclusion: Implementing evidence-based nursing interventions can significantly reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers in critically ill patients, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach to prevention.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"50 20","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-06-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141273999","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-05-15DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6351
Manjula S, Krishna Kumar M
Background: Cefuroxime axetil has shown effectiveness as part of intravenous/oral sequential therapy for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) treatment, although some countries currently lack dosage recommendations for this regimen. In addition, the perspectives of clinicians were not studied. So, this study evaluated the prescription practice of cefuroxime, and cefuroxime+ clavulanic acid in the management of infections in routine Indian settings. Methods: The cross-sectional survey, titled ‘Cefuroxime & Cefuroxime+Clavulanic acid in Management of Infections: Expert Perspective (CARE) Study’, utilized a 20-item, multiple-response questionnaire to gather expert opinion from specialists regarding the clinical use of cefuroxime and cefuroxime + clavulanic acid in managing infections. The survey encompassed questions about current prescription practices, clinical observations, preferences, and experiences related to the use of these antibiotics in routine settings. Results: Among the 164 clinicians surveyed, 78% of the respondents indicated that cefuroxime was highly effective in managing lower respiratory tract infections. Additionally, 91% of the experts stated that the combination of cefuroxime and clavulanic acid was very effective in managing infections. The majority of clinicians recommended cefuroxime + clavulanic acid as the initial therapy for complicated urinary tract infections (88%), as well as first-line therapy for uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections (45%) and community-acquired pneumonia (58%). According to 40% of the clinicians, cefuroxime + clavulanic acid was recommended as the initial therapy for 21-30% of patients suspected of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection. Most respondents (88%) preferred cefuroxime + clavulanic acid as the antibiotic for managing Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Conclusion: The survey has emphasized the critical role of cefuroxime and cefuroxime + clavulanic acid as antibiotics in managing diverse infections. Clinicians' recognition of their efficacy and preference for combination therapy has underscored the importance of antibiotic stewardship in optimizing patient care.
{"title":"Assessment of Cefuroxime and Cefuroxime Clavulanic Acid Prescription Practices for Infection Management in Routine Indian Healthcare Settings: Expert Insights","authors":"Manjula S, Krishna Kumar M","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6351","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6351","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Cefuroxime axetil has shown effectiveness as part of intravenous/oral sequential therapy for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) treatment, although some countries currently lack dosage recommendations for this regimen. In addition, the perspectives of clinicians were not studied. So, this study evaluated the prescription practice of cefuroxime, and cefuroxime+ clavulanic acid in the management of infections in routine Indian settings.\u0000Methods: The cross-sectional survey, titled ‘Cefuroxime & Cefuroxime+Clavulanic acid in Management of Infections: Expert Perspective (CARE) Study’, utilized a 20-item, multiple-response questionnaire to gather expert opinion from specialists regarding the clinical use of cefuroxime and cefuroxime + clavulanic acid in managing infections. The survey encompassed questions about current prescription practices, clinical observations, preferences, and experiences related to the use of these antibiotics in routine settings.\u0000Results: Among the 164 clinicians surveyed, 78% of the respondents indicated that cefuroxime was highly effective in managing lower respiratory tract infections. Additionally, 91% of the experts stated that the combination of cefuroxime and clavulanic acid was very effective in managing infections. The majority of clinicians recommended cefuroxime + clavulanic acid as the initial therapy for complicated urinary tract infections (88%), as well as first-line therapy for uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections (45%) and community-acquired pneumonia (58%). According to 40% of the clinicians, cefuroxime + clavulanic acid was recommended as the initial therapy for 21-30% of patients suspected of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection. Most respondents (88%) preferred cefuroxime + clavulanic acid as the antibiotic for managing Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection.\u0000Conclusion: The survey has emphasized the critical role of cefuroxime and cefuroxime + clavulanic acid as antibiotics in managing diverse infections. Clinicians' recognition of their efficacy and preference for combination therapy has underscored the importance of antibiotic stewardship in optimizing patient care.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"42 11","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140973986","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-05-14DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6350
R. Nwalozie, Jubril Adeyinka Kareem, P. E. Ikpo
Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a lentivirus, a member of Retroviridae family that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Globally, it was estimated that about 0.7% adult, aged 15- 49 years are living with HIV, with a prevalence of about 1.4% in Nigeria. However, a challenge lies in the insufficient and unreliable data present in much of the epidemiological research conducted in various countries and states. Therefore, this study aims to tackle this issue by focusing on gathering comprehensive demographic data and examining the distribution's impact of HIV among the subjects. Aim: To examine the Epidemiological Distribution of HIV among Residents of Port Harcourt Metropolis in Rivers State, Nigeria. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Port Harcourt metropolis, involving adult participants aged 20 years and above selected by simple randomized method among outpatients attending the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt. A total of 392 individuals provided consent and were recruited at the hospital. The study investigated variables such as age, gender, marital status, education level and occupation. Samples were collected and examined using the ELISA method under aseptic conditions. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28, including the calculation of Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis test values. Results: The overall study revealed a prevalence of 1.02%, with only 4 individuals testing positive. Participants were grouped based on various demographics: age (P= .503), gender (P= .142), educational levels (P= .028), marital status (P= .000), and occupation (P= .733), with corresponding p-values indicating significance levels (P<0.05=Significant, P>0.05=Not Significant). Two demographic categories showed statistical significance: marital status, with higher prevalence among singles than married individuals, and educational level, with higher prevalence among those with no formal education. Conclusion: This study showed low HIV prevalence in Port Harcourt. Marital and educational demographics impacted infection distribution such that married, single, and formal education level increases HIV risk. Health education, community HIV testing, consistent monitoring, and regular data updates are strongly advised as crucial measures in the fight against HIV infection.
{"title":"Epidemiological Distribution of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among Residents of Port Harcourt Metropolis in Rivers State Nigeria","authors":"R. Nwalozie, Jubril Adeyinka Kareem, P. E. Ikpo","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6350","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i6350","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a lentivirus, a member of Retroviridae family that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Globally, it was estimated that about 0.7% adult, aged 15- 49 years are living with HIV, with a prevalence of about 1.4% in Nigeria. However, a challenge lies in the insufficient and unreliable data present in much of the epidemiological research conducted in various countries and states. Therefore, this study aims to tackle this issue by focusing on gathering comprehensive demographic data and examining the distribution's impact of HIV among the subjects.\u0000Aim: To examine the Epidemiological Distribution of HIV among Residents of Port Harcourt Metropolis in Rivers State, Nigeria.\u0000Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Port Harcourt metropolis, involving adult participants aged 20 years and above selected by simple randomized method among outpatients attending the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt. A total of 392 individuals provided consent and were recruited at the hospital. The study investigated variables such as age, gender, marital status, education level and occupation. Samples were collected and examined using the ELISA method under aseptic conditions. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28, including the calculation of Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis test values.\u0000Results: The overall study revealed a prevalence of 1.02%, with only 4 individuals testing positive. Participants were grouped based on various demographics: age (P= .503), gender (P= .142), educational levels (P= .028), marital status (P= .000), and occupation (P= .733), with corresponding p-values indicating significance levels (P<0.05=Significant, P>0.05=Not Significant). Two demographic categories showed statistical significance: marital status, with higher prevalence among singles than married individuals, and educational level, with higher prevalence among those with no formal education.\u0000Conclusion: This study showed low HIV prevalence in Port Harcourt. Marital and educational demographics impacted infection distribution such that married, single, and formal education level increases HIV risk. Health education, community HIV testing, consistent monitoring, and regular data updates are strongly advised as crucial measures in the fight against HIV infection.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"6 8","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140980747","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-05-14DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i5349
T. F. Raham, Hamid Shehab Hamid, Zaher Fadhil Raham
Although coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, countries in the equatorial and tropical zones seem to have the lowest figures in terms of incidence and mortality. Throughout the pandemic, Africa has remained as lowest continent of accumulative cases and deaths. Since the African region is characterized by a high prevalence of malaria, the lowest number of cases of confirmed COVID-19 attracts scientists to look for possible links between the two diseases. Through this article, we reviewed existing literature concerning a possible explanation between low incidence and less severe COVID-19 in malaria-endemic areas. Different explanations were reviewed including malaria-COVID-19 cross-immunity, population structure, specific receptor’s role, and Vitamin D. The most important factor investigated was malaria immunity through previous exposure (s) which possibly explains these associations.
{"title":"Exploring the Potential Relationship between Malaria Immunity and COVID-19 Protection","authors":"T. F. Raham, Hamid Shehab Hamid, Zaher Fadhil Raham","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i5349","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i5349","url":null,"abstract":"Although coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, countries in the equatorial and tropical zones seem to have the lowest figures in terms of incidence and mortality. \u0000Throughout the pandemic, Africa has remained as lowest continent of accumulative cases and deaths. \u0000Since the African region is characterized by a high prevalence of malaria, the lowest number of cases of confirmed COVID-19 attracts scientists to look for possible links between the two diseases. Through this article, we reviewed existing literature concerning a possible explanation between low incidence and less severe COVID-19 in malaria-endemic areas. Different explanations were reviewed including malaria-COVID-19 cross-immunity, population structure, specific receptor’s role, and Vitamin D. The most important factor investigated was malaria immunity through previous exposure (s) which possibly explains these associations.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"30 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140981421","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-05-10DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i5348
T. Sampson, I.C. Ohanekwu, L. Peekate
Correctional centers have been reported to be associated with several conditions predisposing inmates to health challenges as a result of exposure to disease causing microbial population. This study therefore targeted the Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Microorganisms from Port Harcourt Correctional Center, Rivers State Nigeria. A total of 150 samples (100 from skin (upper arm) and 50 from wall surfaces) were collected using sterile swab sticks and immediately transported to Department of Microbiology Laboratory, Rivers State University for analyses, using standard microbiological techniques. Molecular characterization was done using Polymerase Chain reaction (PCR) and subjected to gene sequencing. The Kirby-Bauer Disc Diffusion method was used for the antimicrobial susceptibility test. Well in agar method was used to assess the susceptibility of the isolates to honey and Aloe Vera extract. The study revealed that 100% of all the bacterial isolates were resistant to Meropenem, Vancomycin, cefuroxime, and Ceftazidine, while 90% of the bacterial isolates were susceptible to Gentamicin, Cepftriaxone, Erythromycin, and Ciproflozaxine. Data showed the MAR index ranged from 0.3 to 0.8. Statistical analysis revealed there were no significant differences in the mean values of data obtained from the animate and inanimate surfaces (p > 0.05). Molecular identification confirmed the isolates to be Kocuria palustris, Serretia liquefaciens, Klebsiella pneumonia, Enterococcus feacalis, Bacillus flexus, and Aspergillus niger. The results revealed that honey was more effective (100%) than Aloe Vera extract which inhibited only one of the Escherichia coli isolates. The study displayed the antimicrobial effect of honey against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial isolates. While adequate personal hygiene, proper sanitation, and spaced room should be encouraged, honey can be used in correctional centers to control bacterial skin infections.
{"title":"Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Microorganisms from Port Harcourt Correctional Center, Rivers State Nigeria","authors":"T. Sampson, I.C. Ohanekwu, L. Peekate","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i5348","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i5348","url":null,"abstract":"Correctional centers have been reported to be associated with several conditions predisposing inmates to health challenges as a result of exposure to disease causing microbial population. This study therefore targeted the Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Microorganisms from Port Harcourt Correctional Center, Rivers State Nigeria. A total of 150 samples (100 from skin (upper arm) and 50 from wall surfaces) were collected using sterile swab sticks and immediately transported to Department of Microbiology Laboratory, Rivers State University for analyses, using standard microbiological techniques. Molecular characterization was done using Polymerase Chain reaction (PCR) and subjected to gene sequencing. The Kirby-Bauer Disc Diffusion method was used for the antimicrobial susceptibility test. Well in agar method was used to assess the susceptibility of the isolates to honey and Aloe Vera extract. The study revealed that 100% of all the bacterial isolates were resistant to Meropenem, Vancomycin, cefuroxime, and Ceftazidine, while 90% of the bacterial isolates were susceptible to Gentamicin, Cepftriaxone, Erythromycin, and Ciproflozaxine. Data showed the MAR index ranged from 0.3 to 0.8. Statistical analysis revealed there were no significant differences in the mean values of data obtained from the animate and inanimate surfaces (p > 0.05). Molecular identification confirmed the isolates to be Kocuria palustris, Serretia liquefaciens, Klebsiella pneumonia, Enterococcus feacalis, Bacillus flexus, and Aspergillus niger. The results revealed that honey was more effective (100%) than Aloe Vera extract which inhibited only one of the Escherichia coli isolates. The study displayed the antimicrobial effect of honey against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial isolates. While adequate personal hygiene, proper sanitation, and spaced room should be encouraged, honey can be used in correctional centers to control bacterial skin infections.","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":" 5","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140992330","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Aim: The SARS-CoV-2 virus has been a major health concern in recent times, causing a large number of deaths globally. It primarily effects the respiratory and immune system. The present study aimed at analysing the effect of this virus on the white blood cell (WBC) parameters. Study Design: Retrospective record-based study. Place and duration of study: The study was conducted at Lok Nayak Hospital, Delhi. It was one of the largest COVID designated hospitals in India during the COVID pandemic. A total of 200 patients admitted to Lok Nayak Hospital during the COVID wave in April-May 2021 and the COVID wave in January-February 2022 were randomly included in the study. Methodology: The cases were grouped into intensive care unit (ICU) patients and non-ICU patients to compare the association of severity of disease with the WBC parameters. Results: Patients infected with COVID-19 requiring hospital admission showed leucocytosis in the present study. It was noted that the patients requiring critical care had a significantly higher total leucocyte count (TLC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and neutrophil monocyte ratio (NMR). Though no statistically significant association was noted between absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and the severity of infection, the ALC was markedly reduced in ICU patients as compared to non-ICU patients (p-value= 0.057). Conclusion: WBC parameters TLC, ANC, NLR and NMR show significant correlation with severity of COVID-19 infection. These basic haematological parameters can be used to assess severity of COVID-19 infection and treatment response in resource limited conditions.
{"title":"White Blood Cell Parameters in Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19","authors":"Neha Parashar, Rashmi Jain Gupta, Aditi Sajwan, Sunil Kumar, Sandeep Garg, Suresh Kumar","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i4342","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i4342","url":null,"abstract":"Aim: The SARS-CoV-2 virus has been a major health concern in recent times, causing a large number of deaths globally. It primarily effects the respiratory and immune system. The present study aimed at analysing the effect of this virus on the white blood cell (WBC) parameters.\u0000Study Design: Retrospective record-based study.\u0000Place and duration of study: The study was conducted at Lok Nayak Hospital, Delhi. It was one of the largest COVID designated hospitals in India during the COVID pandemic. A total of 200 patients admitted to Lok Nayak Hospital during the COVID wave in April-May 2021 and the COVID wave in January-February 2022 were randomly included in the study.\u0000Methodology: The cases were grouped into intensive care unit (ICU) patients and non-ICU patients to compare the association of severity of disease with the WBC parameters.\u0000Results: Patients infected with COVID-19 requiring hospital admission showed leucocytosis in the present study. It was noted that the patients requiring critical care had a significantly higher total leucocyte count (TLC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and neutrophil monocyte ratio (NMR). Though no statistically significant association was noted between absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and the severity of infection, the ALC was markedly reduced in ICU patients as compared to non-ICU patients (p-value= 0.057).\u0000Conclusion: WBC parameters TLC, ANC, NLR and NMR show significant correlation with severity of COVID-19 infection. These basic haematological parameters can be used to assess severity of COVID-19 infection and treatment response in resource limited conditions. ","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"5 6","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140653673","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-04-23DOI: 10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i4341
M. Soroye, G. Owhonda, I. Nwadiuto, Tonye Livingstone, S. Ameh, Best Ordinioha, Patricia Adetokunbo Akeredolu
Introduction: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an acute infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which is characterized mainly by fever and cough and is capable of progressing to severe symptoms and in some cases death. Aims: To analyze COVID-19 statistics in Rivers State, Nigeria, during the specified period to contribute to the broader understanding of the epidemiology of COVID-19 in the region. Methodology: Study Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving the retrieval of secondary data. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Epidemiology Division of the Rivers State Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health, in December 2022. Participants: A total of 6,299 patients recorded between April 2020 to March 2021 in the Epidemiology Unit were included in the study. Patients with incomplete data were excluded from the analysis. Data Collection and Analysis: Secondary data recorded in Excel format was retrieved from the Epidemiology Unit of the Rivers State Ministry of Health. The data was then exported to IBM Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 25 for analysis. Frequencies were generated and reported in tabular format. Ethical Considerations: Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the State Ministry of Health Board, Port Harcourt, ensuring compliance with ethical standards in research and the University of Port Harcourt Ethics Committee to the State Hospital Board. Results: The mortality rate stood at 1.4%. Port Harcourt Local Government Area (LGA) accounted for approximately two-thirds of all infections, while nearly one-third originated from Obio/Akpor LGA. Among those infected, 17.4% reported a history of travel, while 1% had attended a burial before contracting the virus. Symptomatic presentation was prevalent, with four out of every five confirmed cases (76.9%) experiencing various symptoms, with sore throat emerging as a common presentation alongside fever and other symptoms. Significant disparities were observed concerning the sex and age distribution of infections (p < 0.0001). Males were more affected than females, and individuals within the age groups of 31-40 and 41-50 constituted three-fifths of the total infections. Conclusion: As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, a notable shift in infection rates emerged, highlighting a trend where younger demographics, notably women, became increasingly susceptible. Despite initial perceptions of heightened severity and mortality among older males, nuanced analysis revealed diverse vulnerabilities across gender and age spectrums. Occupational exposures, biological variations, and behavioural disparities all contributed to the observed gender discrepancies in infection rates and outcomes. Furthermore, the urban landscape, with its higher population density and increased mobility, served as a catalyst for the rapid spread of the virus, albeit impacting genders in differing proportions. Mor
{"title":"An Analysis of COVID-19 Statistics in Rivers State, Nigeria: A Study of Demographic Patterns, Geographic Distribution, and Prevalent Symptoms from April 2020 to March 2021","authors":"M. Soroye, G. Owhonda, I. Nwadiuto, Tonye Livingstone, S. Ameh, Best Ordinioha, Patricia Adetokunbo Akeredolu","doi":"10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i4341","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.9734/ajrid/2024/v15i4341","url":null,"abstract":"Introduction: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an acute infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which is characterized mainly by fever and cough and is capable of progressing to severe symptoms and in some cases death. \u0000Aims: To analyze COVID-19 statistics in Rivers State, Nigeria, during the specified period to contribute to the broader understanding of the epidemiology of COVID-19 in the region. \u0000Methodology: \u0000Study Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving the retrieval of secondary data. \u0000Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Epidemiology Division of the Rivers State Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health, in December 2022. \u0000Participants: A total of 6,299 patients recorded between April 2020 to March 2021 in the Epidemiology Unit were included in the study. Patients with incomplete data were excluded from the analysis. \u0000Data Collection and Analysis: Secondary data recorded in Excel format was retrieved from the Epidemiology Unit of the Rivers State Ministry of Health. The data was then exported to IBM Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 25 for analysis. Frequencies were generated and reported in tabular format. \u0000Ethical Considerations: Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the State Ministry of Health Board, Port Harcourt, ensuring compliance with ethical standards in research and the University of Port Harcourt Ethics Committee to the State Hospital Board. \u0000Results: The mortality rate stood at 1.4%. Port Harcourt Local Government Area (LGA) accounted for approximately two-thirds of all infections, while nearly one-third originated from Obio/Akpor LGA. Among those infected, 17.4% reported a history of travel, while 1% had attended a burial before contracting the virus. Symptomatic presentation was prevalent, with four out of every five confirmed cases (76.9%) experiencing various symptoms, with sore throat emerging as a common presentation alongside fever and other symptoms. \u0000Significant disparities were observed concerning the sex and age distribution of infections (p < 0.0001). Males were more affected than females, and individuals within the age groups of 31-40 and 41-50 constituted three-fifths of the total infections. \u0000Conclusion: As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, a notable shift in infection rates emerged, highlighting a trend where younger demographics, notably women, became increasingly susceptible. Despite initial perceptions of heightened severity and mortality among older males, nuanced analysis revealed diverse vulnerabilities across gender and age spectrums. Occupational exposures, biological variations, and behavioural disparities all contributed to the observed gender discrepancies in infection rates and outcomes. Furthermore, the urban landscape, with its higher population density and increased mobility, served as a catalyst for the rapid spread of the virus, albeit impacting genders in differing proportions. \u0000Mor","PeriodicalId":166387,"journal":{"name":"Asian Journal of Research in Infectious Diseases","volume":"136 26","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140668658","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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