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Assessment of Biological Risk Exposure Among Hospital Housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Morgan, Akpan Usenobong; Umogbai, Debora Akinola; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Yeboah, Genevieve Akpah
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v2i3.8026

Hospital housekeepers play a vital role in maintaining hygiene and preventing infections within healthcare facilities, yet they are frequently exposed to biological hazards such as bloodborne pathogens, respiratory droplets, and contaminated waste, often without adequate protection or training. In Nigeria, particularly in tertiary institutions like Wukari Teaching Hospital, limited resources and weak enforcement of safety protocols further increase the vulnerability of non-clinical staff. This study aimed to assess the level of biological risk exposure among hospital housekeepers and identify gaps in personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, hygiene practices, and institutional support. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 hospital housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital, with stratified random sampling ensuring representation across departments including wards, emergency, surgery, and outpatient units. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, direct observation checklists, and key informant interviews with infection control officers, and variables assessed included demographic data, exposure history, PPE usage, hygiene practices, and training experience. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, while qualitative responses were thematically coded. Findings revealed that 78.3% of housekeepers had direct contact with biological waste in the past six months, with blood, sputum, and vomit being the most common contaminants; only 41.7% consistently used full PPE, and just 36.7% reported that PPE was always available. Hand hygiene compliance was observed in 58.3% of cases, while 65% of respondents had never received formal infection control training, and only 30% felt adequately protected at work, with a majority suggesting improvements such as regular training, better supervision, and increased PPE supply. The study concludes that hospital housekeepers at Wukari Teaching Hospital face substantial biological risks due to frequent exposure, inconsistent PPE usage, and inadequate training, highlighting the urgent need for institutional reforms including structured infection control education, reliable PPE provision, and strict enforcement of hygiene protocols to protect this essential workforce and ensure a safe and resilient healthcare environment.

Determination of the Association between Background Characteristics of Slaughterhouse Workers and Their Personal Hygiene Knowledge on Meat Handling Tamala Asare, Solomon Ossom; Abiodun, Ogwa Oluwafunmike; Omanchi, Emmanuel Olofu; Yeboah, Genevieve Akpah; Maxwell, Laweh Addo
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstm.v2i1.5026

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, meat products, either in fresh or frozen conditions, very rapidly become highly susceptible to microbial contamination as soon as they are exposed. It is exactly this situation that makes the hygiene of meat processing very relevant, this make it reasonable that the determination of the association between background characteristics of slaughterhouse workers and their personal hygiene knowledge on meat handling as paramount. This current study, therefore, assessed butchers’ characteristic knowledge and perception of good hygiene as storage practices through a cattle slaughterhouse case analysis. Content validation was utilised to authenticate the questionnaire items, which were administered face-to-face to the respondents (i.e., the butchers). The questionnaire included questions. The results showed that the slaughterhouse workers were male (Freq. = 100%, n = 50), acquired formal education with Low Personal Hygiene Knowledge is about 61%, no formal education 16 % while those with High Personal Hygiene Knowledge for those with formal education is 16% and no formal education is 7% at n = 41), and were strongly (p < 0.0001) familiar with good hygiene knowledge practices. The educated butchers provided good examples that demonstrated knowledge and perception aspects of good hygiene within the age 20-30yrs. When compared to those at the age of 31yrs to 40yrs. Very conscious of their knowledge and perception of good hygiene characterization herein have to strive for continuous improvement in their slaughterhouse activities to assure beef quality and consumer safety.

Evaluating Microbial Quality of Drinking Water from Wells and Boreholes in Michika LGA and Its Impact on Community Health Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Olayeni, Abimbola Gbenga; Johnson, Joanna Afariba; Amofa, Gift
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstm.v2i3.8029

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical public health challenge in rural Nigeria, particularly in Michika Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State, where communities depend on wells and boreholes for their daily water needs. This study evaluates the microbial quality of these groundwater sources and examines their impact on community health. Microbiological analyses revealed widespread contamination, with elevated levels of Escherichia coli, total and fecal coliforms, and high turbidity, especially in wells located in districts such as Zah, Moda, and Minkisi. Physicochemical parameters, including acidic pH and elevated temperatures, further exacerbated microbial proliferation. Environmental assessments identified key contamination sources—proximity to latrines and refuse dumps, open well structures, poor drainage, and unrestricted animal activity—which correlated strongly with high incidences of waterborne diseases, notably diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera, predominantly affecting children under five, pregnant women, and the elderly. In contrast, boreholes in Diaka and Michika Town demonstrated safer profiles due to better infrastructure and maintenance. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, routine water quality monitoring, and community education to mitigate health risks and promote sustainable access to potable water in Michika LGA.

Determination of the Association between Background Characteristics of Slaughterhouse Workers and Their Personal Hygiene Knowledge on Meat Handling Tamala Asare, Solomon Ossom; Abiodun, Ogwa Oluwafunmike; Omanchi, Emmanuel Olofu; Yeboah, Genevieve Akpah; Maxwell, Laweh Addo
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstm.v2i1.5026

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, meat products, either in fresh or frozen conditions, very rapidly become highly susceptible to microbial contamination as soon as they are exposed. It is exactly this situation that makes the hygiene of meat processing very relevant, this make it reasonable that the determination of the association between background characteristics of slaughterhouse workers and their personal hygiene knowledge on meat handling as paramount. This current study, therefore, assessed butchers’ characteristic knowledge and perception of good hygiene as storage practices through a cattle slaughterhouse case analysis. Content validation was utilised to authenticate the questionnaire items, which were administered face-to-face to the respondents (i.e., the butchers). The questionnaire included questions. The results showed that the slaughterhouse workers were male (Freq. = 100%, n = 50), acquired formal education with Low Personal Hygiene Knowledge is about 61%, no formal education 16 % while those with High Personal Hygiene Knowledge for those with formal education is 16% and no formal education is 7% at n = 41), and were strongly (p < 0.0001) familiar with good hygiene knowledge practices. The educated butchers provided good examples that demonstrated knowledge and perception aspects of good hygiene within the age 20-30yrs. When compared to those at the age of 31yrs to 40yrs. Very conscious of their knowledge and perception of good hygiene characterization herein have to strive for continuous improvement in their slaughterhouse activities to assure beef quality and consumer safety.

Evaluating Microbial Quality of Drinking Water from Wells and Boreholes in Michika LGA and Its Impact on Community Health Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Olayeni, Abimbola Gbenga; Johnson, Joanna Afariba; Amofa, Gift
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 2 No 3 (2025): African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstm.v2i3.8029

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical public health challenge in rural Nigeria, particularly in Michika Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State, where communities depend on wells and boreholes for their daily water needs. This study evaluates the microbial quality of these groundwater sources and examines their impact on community health. Microbiological analyses revealed widespread contamination, with elevated levels of Escherichia coli, total and fecal coliforms, and high turbidity, especially in wells located in districts such as Zah, Moda, and Minkisi. Physicochemical parameters, including acidic pH and elevated temperatures, further exacerbated microbial proliferation. Environmental assessments identified key contamination sources—proximity to latrines and refuse dumps, open well structures, poor drainage, and unrestricted animal activity—which correlated strongly with high incidences of waterborne diseases, notably diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera, predominantly affecting children under five, pregnant women, and the elderly. In contrast, boreholes in Diaka and Michika Town demonstrated safer profiles due to better infrastructure and maintenance. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, routine water quality monitoring, and community education to mitigate health risks and promote sustainable access to potable water in Michika LGA.

From Perception to Effect of Oil Spillage Among Fishermen in the Niger Delta Region of Bayelsa State, Nigeria Akafa, Tensaba Andes; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Dennis, Adobeni Emmanuel; Konka, Daniel; Ametsi, Smile Kobina; Tahidu, Issifu; Oladele, Gloria Omonefe
Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies Vol 2 No 2 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijahrs.v2i2.6064

Oil spillage continues to pose a significant environmental threat in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, leading to ecological degradation, disruption of livelihoods, and socio-political instability. This study investigates the perceptions and impacts of oil spillage among fishermen in the Biseni community of Bayelsa State. Utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from 358 respondents selected through systematic random sampling. A semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire was employed, and responses were analyzed using SPSS version 16. The results show that 94.4% of respondents identified pipeline corrosion from soil-related factors as a major cause of oil spillage. Other commonly perceived causes included sabotage by surveillance contractors (86.3%), pipeline vandalism (85.2%), and unemployment (84.1%). Water pollution was identified by 98.0% of respondents as the most severe environmental consequence, particularly affecting aquatic life. Health impacts were also substantial, with 96.9% reporting adverse effects, skin rashes being the most frequently cited (32.0%). Economically, 95.5% of respondents reported reduced income due to declining fish yields. Broader socio-economic impacts included perceived links to unemployment (91.9%), increased kidnapping (79.6%), lack of compensation (80.4%), displacement (35.8%), and the need to purchase drinking water (70.4%). The study concludes that repeated oil spillage and unregulated exploitation have caused significant environmental and socio-economic harm in the Biseni community. The lack of effective compensation mechanisms intensifies local grievances and underscores the urgent need for sustainable environmental governance and enhanced corporate accountability in oil-producing areas.

In-vitro Cytotoxic and Anti-vibro Cholerae Activities of Methanol Roots Extracts of Morinda citrifolia L (Noni) Umaru, Isaac John; Konka, Daniel; Kingsly, Iseko Iyoko; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Hassan, Okrah George; Oteng, Joseph; Akafa, Tensaba Andes; Umaru, Kerenhappuch Isaac
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 2 No 1 (2025): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v2i1.4720

Knowledge on medicinal properties of plants has extensively been applied all over the World to cure or ameliorate suffering of mankind. The use of remedies from plant origin covers a wide variety of maladies and constitutes an alternative way to antibiotics, which is otherwise no longer promising due to the generalized antibiotic resistance among pathogenic microorganisms. The majority of epidemic Vibrio cholerae strains have become resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents for many reasons, including mutations, horizontal gene transfers, etc. Therefore, secondary means of treatment are needed to overcome this impediment in combating cholera. Morinda citrifolia roots extensively used in traditional medicine. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the In-vitro Cytotoxic and Anti-vibro Cholerae Activities of Methanol Roots Extracts of Morinda citrifolia against V. cholerae isolates. Methods: Initially, different concentration of the extracts materials was subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening. Anti-V.cholerae activities were assessed by performing MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) test using disc diffusion method with different concentrations (1.25, 2.25, 5.00, 8.00, 10.00mg/ml) where standard discs of gentamycin and meropenem (10 μg/disc) were used. Further, Brine shrimp lethality bioassay was done to evaluate the extracts’ cytotoxic activities using different concentrations (5,10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 400, 800μg/ml) against vincristine sulphate. Results: The preliminary screening confirms the presence of convenient phytochemical constituents like flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, etc., and are liable for the emergence of the antibacterial activities in different strains. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of methanolic Morinda citrifolia roots was found to be (a) 1.25, (b) 2.25, (c) 5, (d) 8, and (f) 10 mg/ml, respectively. Moreover, 100% mortality was observed only at the highest concentration (800 μg/ml). In comparison, the rest of the test concentration showed less than 90% mortality at the highest concentration (400 μg/ml). Conclusions: The Morinda citrifolia roots possess significant phytochemicals and showed potential anti-V. cholerae activities with mild toxicity. Hence, Morinda citrifolia (L.) roots may be recommended as potential phytotherapy against cholera disease.

Evaluation of Common Beliefs and Practices of the Slaughterhouse Butchers Tamale Metropolis Ghana Asare, Solomon Ossom; Omanchi, Emmanuel Olofu; Shehu, Amina Jummai; Tahidu, Issifu; Konka, Dadaniel
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v2i2.5022

Meat quality and butcher’s awareness plays a key role in production of hygienic meat and preserving the public health. A structured questionnaire was developed and a total of 150 butcher were surveyed in the pilot study. The aim was to evaluation the common beliefs and practices of the slaughterhouse butchers. The survey revealed that 54.5% of the butchers a family business and does not require any formal training and has No need for registration to work as a butcher. And about 62.6 % Use local implements in the slaughter of animal. With about 58.8 % has the knowledge of protective materials during operation, however, 53.8% practice skinning of animals with local knife and bare hands. Based on the results obtained in the study, it is concluded that most of the butchers required education and awareness training about hygienic meat production, threatful meat borne diseases, sanitary conditions and hygienic slaughter techniques in the butcher shops to safe guard the health of themselves and meat consumers.

Evaluating Environmental and Public Health Hazards of Urban Flooding: Clinical Consequences and Considerations Umaru, Isaac John; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Umogbai, Debora Akinola; Olayemi, Abimbola Gbenga; Chukwudi, Emmanuel Eluu
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajcmpr.v3i1.8025

Urban flooding poses a significant threat to environmental integrity and public health, particularly in rapidly expanding regions of Nigeria. This study evaluates the environmental contamination, clinical consequences, and psychosocial impacts of urban flooding across six districts—Gwarinpa, Lokogoma, and Lugbe in Abuja, and Yola North, Demsa, and Numan in Adamawa State—selected for their history of seasonal flooding, population density, and strategic urban importance. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining environmental sampling, clinical data collection, and household surveys. Water and soil samples were analyzed for microbial contamination (E. coli), pH, turbidity, and heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium) in line with WHO standards, while clinical data from health facilities were used to assess the prevalence of flood-related illnesses, including diarrhea, skin infections, and respiratory symptoms. Mental health outcomes were evaluated through structured surveys administered to 300 residents, focusing on anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Results revealed elevated levels of E. coli and heavy metals in flood-affected zones, with Lokogoma and Yola North recording the highest contamination, and these districts also reporting the highest incidence of waterborne diseases and respiratory conditions. Mental health symptoms were prevalent across all districts, with more than 50% of respondents in Lokogoma and Demsa reporting signs of anxiety and PTSD, while healthcare facilities in Lugbe and Numan experienced disruptions in chronic disease management and medication access, underscoring systemic vulnerabilities. In conclusion, urban flooding in Abuja and Adamawa has profound environmental and public health implications, and the findings highlight the need for integrated flood management strategies, including infrastructure upgrades, environmental monitoring, healthcare system strengthening, and mental health integration. Tailored interventions across these districts are essential to mitigate future risks and build community resilience in the face of climate-induced disasters.

Neuroprotective Effects of Cloves on Albino Rats Induced with Mercury Umaru, Isaac John; O, Mosugu O.; Asare, Solomon Ossom; Sirina, Bakari Genevieve; Bobie, Shelter Agbeko; Ayi, Atsu
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.7893

This study evaluated the neuroprotective potential of clove (Syzygium aromaticum, CV) in albino rats exposed to mercury chloride (MC), utilizing a diabetic rat model to investigate both neurological and immunological responses. Clove is known for its potent antioxidant properties, with applications spanning the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and agricultural sectors. Mercury chloride, a recognized neurotoxin, is commonly ingested through carbohydrate-rich foods subjected to high-temperature processing. The experimental design included five groups: Group I (Control: corn flour diet), Group II (MC-treated: 20 mg/kg body weight), Group III (CV-treated: 200 mg/kg BW), Group IV (CV 100 mg/kg BW + MC 20 mg/kg BW), and Group V (CV 200 mg/kg BW + ascorbic acid 20 mg/kg BW), with treatments administered over 21 days. MC exposure induced oxidative stress and DNA damage in brain tissue, evidenced by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and histopathological degeneration in the hippocampal MA3 region and granular layer (HL). Clove administration significantly mitigated these effects by increasing glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, reducing MDA concentrations, lowering gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and elevating acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, thereby restoring biochemical parameters toward normal levels. Histological findings further confirmed the protective effect of clove against MC-induced neuronal damage. These results suggest that clove confers neuroprotection through its antioxidative and neurochemical modulation properties, highlighting its potential therapeutic value in preventing heavy metal-induced neurotoxicity.

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