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Serum IgM Levels and Hepatitis D Virus Co-Infection in HBsAg-Positive Patients in Abakaliki, Nigeria Azibanyam, Okosigha Saviour; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Ifeoma, Anyiam Vivian
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.v2i3.7486

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus that relies on co-infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) for its replication. This study aimed to identify HBsAg-positive patients co-infected with HDV and quantify serum IgM levels in a hospital-based population in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 1,000 patients attending the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (FETHA) and Mile 4 Hospital Ishieke. HBsAg-positive individuals were identified using a rapid diagnostic kit, while HDV-IgM was detected using ELISA. Among the 1,000 participants, 89 (8.9%) tested positive for HBsAg, and of these, 5 (5.6%) were also positive for HDV-IgM, indicating active co-infection. HDV co-infection prevalence was higher among females (7.7%) compared to males (2.7%), and significantly higher among married individuals (6.9%) than singles (3.2%) (p < 0.05). Age-specific analysis revealed the highest co-infection rate (10%) among individuals aged 29–33 years, while no cases were recorded in the 34–45 years age group. Geographically, patients from Mile 4 Hospital had a higher co-infection rate (7.5%) than those from FETHA (2.8%). Educational status and occupation also influenced prevalence; tertiary-educated individuals had the highest rate (13.6%), while no cases were reported among those with only primary education. Students recorded a prevalence of 8.9%, with no co-infections detected among traders or housewives. Among clinical subgroups, pregnant women had a higher co-infection rate (9.5%) compared to blood donors (2.1%). These findings underscore the importance of routine HDV screening among HBsAg-positive patients, especially in high-risk groups, and the urgent need for targeted public health interventions to reduce the burden and severity of HBV/HDV co-infection in Nigeria. Further research is warranted to better understand the epidemiological dynamics and clinical implications of co-infection.

Prevalence of Tuberculosis in Coastal Communities of Port Harcourt City, Rivers State, Nigeria Chinyere, Chikwendu; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): 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.v3i1.9179

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with an estimated 586,000 incident cases in 2023, and coastal zones such as Port Harcourt present distinct epidemiological risks due to high population density, informal settlements, frequent flooding, and limited access to diagnostic and treatment services. Against the backdrop of scarce TB data specific to coastal communities and an almost complete absence of information on immunopathological mechanisms in this setting, this study examined TB prevalence and treatment compliance among residents of three coastal communities in Port Harcourt City, Rivers State—Eagle Island, Marine Base, and Borikiri Sea Side—and explored how risk factor exposure, preventive practices, attitudes, and knowledge relate to disease patterns. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, 400 respondents completed a structured questionnaire capturing socio-demographic characteristics, TB-related knowledge, exposure to risk factors, preventive behaviors, attitudes, and treatment history, and the data were analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean scores) and hypothesis testing. The findings show an overall TB prevalence of 11.5%, with community-specific prevalence of 12.0% in Eagle Island, 10.5% in Marine Base, and 12.5% in Borikiri Sea Side. Significant exposure to risk factors such as overcrowding, occupational hazards, and household tobacco smoke was positively correlated with TB prevalence (r = 0.462, p < 0.05). Moderate adoption of preventive measures (e.g., mouth covering and ensuring proper ventilation) was associated with better treatment compliance (r = 0.378, p < 0.05), although routine health check-ups were relatively uncommon. Positive attitudes toward TB—recognizing its seriousness and rejecting stigma—were linked to improved adherence (r = 0.421, p < 0.05), and higher TB knowledge similarly correlated with higher treatment compliance (r = 0.394, p < 0.05). The study concludes that TB control in these coastal communities requires an integrated strategy that simultaneously reduces exposure to structural and behavioral risk factors, strengthens preventive practices, promotes positive attitudes, and enhances TB-related knowledge. These context-specific insights provide an empirical basis for designing targeted public health interventions to improve treatment compliance and curb TB transmission in coastal Nigerian settings.

Serum IgM Levels and Hepatitis D Virus Co-Infection in HBsAg-Positive Patients in Abakaliki, Nigeria Azibanyam, Okosigha Saviour; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Ifeoma, Anyiam Vivian
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.v2i3.7486

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus that relies on co-infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) for its replication. This study aimed to identify HBsAg-positive patients co-infected with HDV and quantify serum IgM levels in a hospital-based population in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 1,000 patients attending the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (FETHA) and Mile 4 Hospital Ishieke. HBsAg-positive individuals were identified using a rapid diagnostic kit, while HDV-IgM was detected using ELISA. Among the 1,000 participants, 89 (8.9%) tested positive for HBsAg, and of these, 5 (5.6%) were also positive for HDV-IgM, indicating active co-infection. HDV co-infection prevalence was higher among females (7.7%) compared to males (2.7%), and significantly higher among married individuals (6.9%) than singles (3.2%) (p < 0.05). Age-specific analysis revealed the highest co-infection rate (10%) among individuals aged 29–33 years, while no cases were recorded in the 34–45 years age group. Geographically, patients from Mile 4 Hospital had a higher co-infection rate (7.5%) than those from FETHA (2.8%). Educational status and occupation also influenced prevalence; tertiary-educated individuals had the highest rate (13.6%), while no cases were reported among those with only primary education. Students recorded a prevalence of 8.9%, with no co-infections detected among traders or housewives. Among clinical subgroups, pregnant women had a higher co-infection rate (9.5%) compared to blood donors (2.1%). These findings underscore the importance of routine HDV screening among HBsAg-positive patients, especially in high-risk groups, and the urgent need for targeted public health interventions to reduce the burden and severity of HBV/HDV co-infection in Nigeria. Further research is warranted to better understand the epidemiological dynamics and clinical implications of co-infection.

Prevalence of Tuberculosis in Coastal Communities of Port Harcourt City, Rivers State, Nigeria Chinyere, Chikwendu; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): 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.v3i1.9179

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with an estimated 586,000 incident cases in 2023, and coastal zones such as Port Harcourt present distinct epidemiological risks due to high population density, informal settlements, frequent flooding, and limited access to diagnostic and treatment services. Against the backdrop of scarce TB data specific to coastal communities and an almost complete absence of information on immunopathological mechanisms in this setting, this study examined TB prevalence and treatment compliance among residents of three coastal communities in Port Harcourt City, Rivers State—Eagle Island, Marine Base, and Borikiri Sea Side—and explored how risk factor exposure, preventive practices, attitudes, and knowledge relate to disease patterns. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, 400 respondents completed a structured questionnaire capturing socio-demographic characteristics, TB-related knowledge, exposure to risk factors, preventive behaviors, attitudes, and treatment history, and the data were analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean scores) and hypothesis testing. The findings show an overall TB prevalence of 11.5%, with community-specific prevalence of 12.0% in Eagle Island, 10.5% in Marine Base, and 12.5% in Borikiri Sea Side. Significant exposure to risk factors such as overcrowding, occupational hazards, and household tobacco smoke was positively correlated with TB prevalence (r = 0.462, p < 0.05). Moderate adoption of preventive measures (e.g., mouth covering and ensuring proper ventilation) was associated with better treatment compliance (r = 0.378, p < 0.05), although routine health check-ups were relatively uncommon. Positive attitudes toward TB—recognizing its seriousness and rejecting stigma—were linked to improved adherence (r = 0.421, p < 0.05), and higher TB knowledge similarly correlated with higher treatment compliance (r = 0.394, p < 0.05). The study concludes that TB control in these coastal communities requires an integrated strategy that simultaneously reduces exposure to structural and behavioral risk factors, strengthens preventive practices, promotes positive attitudes, and enhances TB-related knowledge. These context-specific insights provide an empirical basis for designing targeted public health interventions to improve treatment compliance and curb TB transmission in coastal Nigerian settings.

Study of Microorganisms Associated with Spoilage of Onions Sold in Mbiama Market, Rivers State, South South Nigeria Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Ngozi, Opara Christiana; Samson, Efere Yarwadum
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 3 No 1 (2026): 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.v3i1.8802

Onions are a staple vegetable in many Nigerian households, and their spoilage can contribute to significant economic losses and food insecurity. This study investigated the microorganisms associated with the spoilage of onions sold in Mbiama Tuesday Market, Rivers State, South-South Nigeria, and examined their potential implications for public health. A total of 100 onion samples were collected, and the associated microorganisms were isolated, identified, and characterized using standard bacteriological and mycological techniques, including biochemical testing and antibiotic sensitivity assays. The results showed that the onions were contaminated with a variety of bacteria—Bacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Escherichia coli—and fungi, including Mucor, Aspergillus niger, yeast, and Penicillium spp., all of which were capable of causing soft rot, discoloration, and decay. Among the bacterial isolates, E. coli was the most frequent (23.5%), whereas Pseudomonas spp. was the least frequent (9.8%); among the fungi, A. niger was the most frequent (13.7%) and Mucor the least frequent (5.9%). Bacterial colony counts ranged from 5.2 × 10⁵ CFU/g (E. coli) to 5.6 × 10⁵ CFU/g (Pseudomonas spp.), while fungal counts ranged from 1.4 × 10⁵ CFU/g (yeast) to 1.58 × 10⁵ CFU/g (A. niger). Biochemical tests revealed that Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. were catalase and coagulase positive, whereas Pseudomonas spp. and E. coli were coagulase negative. Antibiotic sensitivity testing showed that Staphylococcus spp. was resistant to the tested antibiotics, while Bacillus spp., E. coli, and Pseudomonas spp. remained sensitive. The study concludes that onions sold in Mbiama Market are contaminated with diverse spoilage-causing bacteria and fungi, posing a potential risk to public health. These findings underscore the need for proper handling, storage, and preservation practices, such as maintaining cool, dry storage conditions and ensuring hand hygiene among vendors and consumers as well as further research to develop effective strategies for controlling microbial spoilage of onions in Nigeria.

Study of Microorganisms Associated with Spoilage of Onions Sold in Mbiama Market, Rivers State, South South Nigeria Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Ngozi, Opara Christiana; Samson, Efere Yarwadum
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 3 No 1 (2026): 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.v3i1.8802

Onions are a staple vegetable in many Nigerian households, and their spoilage can contribute to significant economic losses and food insecurity. This study investigated the microorganisms associated with the spoilage of onions sold in Mbiama Tuesday Market, Rivers State, South-South Nigeria, and examined their potential implications for public health. A total of 100 onion samples were collected, and the associated microorganisms were isolated, identified, and characterized using standard bacteriological and mycological techniques, including biochemical testing and antibiotic sensitivity assays. The results showed that the onions were contaminated with a variety of bacteria—Bacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Escherichia coli—and fungi, including Mucor, Aspergillus niger, yeast, and Penicillium spp., all of which were capable of causing soft rot, discoloration, and decay. Among the bacterial isolates, E. coli was the most frequent (23.5%), whereas Pseudomonas spp. was the least frequent (9.8%); among the fungi, A. niger was the most frequent (13.7%) and Mucor the least frequent (5.9%). Bacterial colony counts ranged from 5.2 × 10⁵ CFU/g (E. coli) to 5.6 × 10⁵ CFU/g (Pseudomonas spp.), while fungal counts ranged from 1.4 × 10⁵ CFU/g (yeast) to 1.58 × 10⁵ CFU/g (A. niger). Biochemical tests revealed that Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. were catalase and coagulase positive, whereas Pseudomonas spp. and E. coli were coagulase negative. Antibiotic sensitivity testing showed that Staphylococcus spp. was resistant to the tested antibiotics, while Bacillus spp., E. coli, and Pseudomonas spp. remained sensitive. The study concludes that onions sold in Mbiama Market are contaminated with diverse spoilage-causing bacteria and fungi, posing a potential risk to public health. These findings underscore the need for proper handling, storage, and preservation practices, such as maintaining cool, dry storage conditions and ensuring hand hygiene among vendors and consumers as well as further research to develop effective strategies for controlling microbial spoilage of onions in Nigeria.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Neisseria gonorrhoeae among Individuals in Obigbo, Rivers State Olotu, Olayemi Favour; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 2 No 1 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v2i1.4591

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a major public health concern due to potential for severe complication of infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection among youths in Obigbo, Rivers State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional design, 288 participants aged 16-35 years comprises of 105 males and 183 females were study to evaluate infection prevalence, awareness, and sexual health behaviors influencing transmission. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire capturing demographic information, awareness levels, and risk-related behaviors, alongside rapid diagnostic testing for N. gonorrhoeae. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze relationships between demographic variables and infection risk. Findings indicated a prevalence of 8 (2.78%), with a higher rate observed among males 5 (4.76%) than females 3 (1.64%). The higher prevalence among males and those within younger age brackets suggests behavioral patterns and risk perceptions that could be addressed through targeted public health interventions. Additionally, the study emphasizes a significant gap in awareness of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, underlining the need for improved health education focused on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention. Infection was more frequent among individuals aged 16-20 years with males having high incidences and 21-25 years with females having the highest incidences, highlighting age-specific vulnerabilities. The risk factors included inconsistent condom use, limited awareness of N. gonorrhoeae, and a history of multiple sexual partners. Gender and educational background were significantly associated with awareness and preventive behaviors. Generally, the findings underscore the necessity of accessible sexual health services, community-based education programs, and socioeconomic support systems to address not only STI risks but also broader health disparities. Targeted interventions that consider both individual behaviors and social determinants of health may be effective in reducing the prevalence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and improving the sexual health of youths in Obigbo, ultimately contributing to healthier and more informed communities in Rivers State.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Some Intestinal Parasitic Infections among School Children in Yenagoa Metropolis, Bayelsa State, Nigeria Etiefa, Otumbere; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Samson, Efere Y.; Usodo, Elkanah Edet; Sam, Buta Tarimotimi
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 1 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i1.9085

Intestinal parasite infections (IPIs) remain a major public health problem among school-aged children in Nigeria, with differing school environments and socio-economic conditions potentially shaping transmission dynamics. This study investigated the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among children attending public and private primary schools in Yenagoa Metropolis, Bayelsa State, and compared prevalence patterns between these settings. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, and a total of 395 stool samples were collected from pupils in 10 primary schools (5 public and 5 private). Stool specimens were examined using direct wet mount and formal ether concentration techniques, while socio-demographic and risk-factor data were obtained through structured questionnaires. Associations between infection status and socio-economic variables were assessed using chi-square tests. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 23.8%, with slightly higher prevalence in public schools (25.7%) than in private schools (21.8%). The most frequently identified helminths were Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis, while Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia were the predominant protozoa. Infection was most common among children aged 8–10 years (26.6%), and female pupils aged 11–13 years in public schools showed relatively higher infection rates, although no statistically significant differences were detected across age categories or between genders within and across school types. The findings underscore a moderate overall prevalence of intestinal parasites and highlight the continued vulnerability of primary school children to both helminthic and protozoan infections. The study concludes that improving hygiene practices, sanitation infrastructure, and access to clean water in both public and private school communities is essential to reduce transmission and protect child health in Yenagoa Metropolis.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Neisseria gonorrhoeae among Individuals in Obigbo, Rivers State Olotu, Olayemi Favour; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 2 No 1 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v2i1.4591

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a major public health concern due to potential for severe complication of infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection among youths in Obigbo, Rivers State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional design, 288 participants aged 16-35 years comprises of 105 males and 183 females were study to evaluate infection prevalence, awareness, and sexual health behaviors influencing transmission. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire capturing demographic information, awareness levels, and risk-related behaviors, alongside rapid diagnostic testing for N. gonorrhoeae. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze relationships between demographic variables and infection risk. Findings indicated a prevalence of 8 (2.78%), with a higher rate observed among males 5 (4.76%) than females 3 (1.64%). The higher prevalence among males and those within younger age brackets suggests behavioral patterns and risk perceptions that could be addressed through targeted public health interventions. Additionally, the study emphasizes a significant gap in awareness of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, underlining the need for improved health education focused on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention. Infection was more frequent among individuals aged 16-20 years with males having high incidences and 21-25 years with females having the highest incidences, highlighting age-specific vulnerabilities. The risk factors included inconsistent condom use, limited awareness of N. gonorrhoeae, and a history of multiple sexual partners. Gender and educational background were significantly associated with awareness and preventive behaviors. Generally, the findings underscore the necessity of accessible sexual health services, community-based education programs, and socioeconomic support systems to address not only STI risks but also broader health disparities. Targeted interventions that consider both individual behaviors and social determinants of health may be effective in reducing the prevalence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and improving the sexual health of youths in Obigbo, ultimately contributing to healthier and more informed communities in Rivers State.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Some Intestinal Parasitic Infections among School Children in Yenagoa Metropolis, Bayelsa State, Nigeria Etiefa, Otumbere; Kenneth, Imarenezor Edobor Peter; Samson, Efere Y.; Usodo, Elkanah Edet; Sam, Buta Tarimotimi
Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Vol 3 No 1 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijst.v3i1.9085

Intestinal parasite infections (IPIs) remain a major public health problem among school-aged children in Nigeria, with differing school environments and socio-economic conditions potentially shaping transmission dynamics. This study investigated the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among children attending public and private primary schools in Yenagoa Metropolis, Bayelsa State, and compared prevalence patterns between these settings. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, and a total of 395 stool samples were collected from pupils in 10 primary schools (5 public and 5 private). Stool specimens were examined using direct wet mount and formal ether concentration techniques, while socio-demographic and risk-factor data were obtained through structured questionnaires. Associations between infection status and socio-economic variables were assessed using chi-square tests. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 23.8%, with slightly higher prevalence in public schools (25.7%) than in private schools (21.8%). The most frequently identified helminths were Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis, while Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia were the predominant protozoa. Infection was most common among children aged 8–10 years (26.6%), and female pupils aged 11–13 years in public schools showed relatively higher infection rates, although no statistically significant differences were detected across age categories or between genders within and across school types. The findings underscore a moderate overall prevalence of intestinal parasites and highlight the continued vulnerability of primary school children to both helminthic and protozoan infections. The study concludes that improving hygiene practices, sanitation infrastructure, and access to clean water in both public and private school communities is essential to reduce transmission and protect child health in Yenagoa Metropolis.

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