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Serum IgM Levels and Hepatitis D Virus Co-Infection in HBsAg-Positive Patients in Abakaliki, Nigeria Okosigha Saviour Azibanyam; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth; Anyiam Vivian Ifeoma
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 Chikwendu Chinyere; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth
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 Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth; Opara Christiana Ngozi; Efere Yarwadum Samson
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 Olayemi Favour Olotu; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth
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 Otumbere Etiefa; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth; Efere Y. Samson; Elkanah Edet Usodo; Buta Tarimotimi Sam
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.

Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices Among Mothers of Infants [0-6 Months] Attending Immunization Clinic in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State Dim Lilian Chinyere; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth
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.v2i1.4592

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months of life is essential for an infant's optimal growth, immunity, and development. However, global adherence remains inadequate, particularly in developing regions. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing EBF practices among mothers of infants aged 0-6 months attending the immunization clinic at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) in Rivers State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional approach, data were gathered from 382 mothers through structured questionnaires. Analysis was done using Pearson correlation and chi-square tests. The findings showed that social support from healthcare providers, family and breastfeeding support groups played a crucial role in encouraging EBF. A substantial portion of mothers (47.1%) receive help with breastfeeding decisions from healthcare providers, followed by 39.3% from husbands or relatives and 13.6% from friends. Encouragement from husbands or family members plays a crucial role, with 83.8% of mothers reporting support in this regard. Additionally, 26.2% of mothers participate in breastfeeding support groups, and 75.9% of healthcare providers discuss the benefits of breastfeeding with them, further supporting their decisions. A notable 68.1% of healthcare providers assist with the initiation of breastfeeding, and 39.3% receive post-discharge breastfeeding support. The influence of healthcare providers in the decision to exclusive breastfeeding is significant, with 47.1% attributing their decision to this guidance. The findings show that significant correlations were observed between breastfeeding education and antenatal clinic attendance (r = 0.33, p < 0.001), as well as between belief in breastfeeding benefits and the number of antenatal visits (r = 0.22, sp < 0.01). The findings show that attending antenatal clinics, receiving breastfeeding education, and strong belief in the benefits of breastfeeding were positively associated with the practice of EBF. Additionally, factors like the place of delivery, mode of delivery, and home delivery supervisor also played a significant role in determining exclusive breastfeeding practices. Logistic regression analysis further highlighted that maternal education, healthcare support, and socioeconomic factors were key predictors of EBF practices. Conclusively, this study highlights the importance of social support, breastfeeding education, and healthcare provider encouragement in promoting EBF practices. Targeted interventions that focus on enhancing breastfeeding education during antenatal visits and addressing cultural and healthcare-related barriers are recommended to improve EBF rates among mothers attending UPTH and in Rivers State.

Prevalence of Hepatitis D Virus Co-Infection among HBsAg-Positive Patients in Abakaliki Metropolis, Ebonyi State, Nigeria Okosigha Saviour Azibanyam; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth; Anyiam Ifeoma Vivian
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 2 No 3 (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.v2i3.7484

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus that requires co-infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) for replication and expression. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HDV co-infection among HBsAg-positive patients in Abakaliki Metropolis, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed, involving 1,000 patients who presented at the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (FETHA) and Mile 4 Hospital Ishieke during the study period. Screening for HBV infection was conducted using the Skytec one-step rapid diagnostic kit, identifying 89 (8.9%) HBsAg-positive individuals. Subsequently, anti-HDV IgM serology testing was performed using ELISA on serum samples from HBsAg-positive patients to detect HDV co-infection. HDV IgM antibodies were detected in 5 (5.6%) of the HBsAg-positive patients—four pregnant women and one blood donor. Age-specific HBsAg prevalence was highest in the 24–28-year age group (13.5%), followed by 19–23 years (9.4%) and 29–33 years (4.0%). Married individuals exhibited a higher prevalence (16.6%) than singles (4.8%). Educational level was also associated with prevalence, with tertiary education holders showing the highest rate (20.0%) compared to those with primary education (4.8%). Based on occupation, the highest HBsAg prevalence was recorded among housewives (25.0%), followed by traders (14.7%), students (9.4%), and civil servants (4.3%). The presence of HDV co-infection highlights its potential to exacerbate the clinical course of HBV infection. The study recommends routine HDV screening among HBsAg-positive patients for early detection and clinical management. Additionally, public health interventions should include RNA-based diagnostic tools, increased awareness of HBV/HDV risks in high-risk populations, and integrated care strategies tailored to region-specific epidemiological patterns in Nigeria.

Determination of Antagonistic Effects of Sludge and Urine-Associated Bacteria against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth; Opara Christiana Ngozi; Efere Yarwadum Samson
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.v3i1.8284

Abattoirs, due to their very many activities, is a source of microbial diversity, many of which are able to prevent the growth of other closely related bacteria. Hence, this work was carried out to isolate and identify bacteria from sludge and urine, and evaluate their antagonistic effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The antagonistic effects of bacterial pathogens from abattoir sludge against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The culture and identification of bacteria from abattoir sludge was done using standard microbiological techniques and the bacterial antagonism assay was done using the overlay method. From the abattoir sludge, Bacillus species (37.5%) was the most prevalent, followed by Shigella species (12.5%), Escherichia coli (12.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (12.5%), Proteus species (12.5%), and Klebsieilla. species (12.5%). The bacterial isolates were most resistant to Ciprofloxacin, Cefotaxime, Cefuroxime, Imipenem and most sensitive to Nitrofurantoin, Nalixidic Acid, Gentamicin, Erythromycin, Ofloxacin, AZN. From the study, none of these abattoir sludge-associated bacteria showed antagonistic effect against Staphylococcus aureus and against Escherichia coli. This study demonstrates the antagonistic potential of sludge and urine-associated bacteria against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The identified isolates, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis, exhibited significant inhibitory activity, suggesting their potential as sources of novel antimicrobial compounds. These findings highlight the importance of exploring environmental and human-associated microbiota for bioactive molecules that could address the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance.

Urinary Tract Infection in Pregnancy: Bacterial Profile, Antibiogram, Electrolytes and Risk Factors in Otuoke and Environs, Bayelsa State, Nigeria Buta Tarimotimi Sam; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth; Efere Y. Samson; Elkanah Edet Usodo; Otumbere Etiefa
African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research Vol 3 No 2 (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.v3i2.9086

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) remain a major health concern during pregnancy due to their potential complications for both mother and fetus, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study investigated the bacterial etiology, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, cytokine responses, electrolyte alterations, and risk factors associated with UTIs among pregnant women in Otuoke and Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A total of 300 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in selected hospitals were screened for UTIs, excluding those on antibiotic therapy. Urine, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid samples were processed using standard microbiological and serological techniques, bacterial isolates were identified and subjected to antibiogram testing, and interleukin-10 (IL-10) and electrolyte profiles were measured. Multivariate analysis was used to assess sociodemographic and clinical risk factors. The prevalence of UTI was 18.7% (56/300). Escherichia coli was the predominant pathogen (8.7%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (2.7%), coagulase-negative staphylococci (2.7%), Proteus spp. (2.0%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (1.4%), Citrobacter spp. (1.0%), and Streptococcus spp. (0.3%). High levels of resistance were observed to ampicillin, gentamicin, and ceftriaxone, whereas ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, nitrofurantoin, and cotrimoxazole remained effective against most isolates. IL-10 concentrations increased significantly with UTI severity, indicating an enhanced immunological response. Infected participants showed significant alterations in electrolyte and biochemical parameters, including elevated serum urea, creatinine, and proteinuria compared with controls (p < 0.05), with proteinuria demonstrating notable statistical significance (χ² = 13.39, p < 0.05); severe infections were associated with greater disturbances in sodium and potassium balance. Multiparity, low socioeconomic status, and limited educational attainment emerged as significant predictors of UTI occurrence. This study highlights a substantial burden of UTIs among pregnant women in the study area, accompanied by rising antibiotic resistance, and suggests that cytokines—particularly IL-10—and electrolyte abnormalities may serve as useful biomarkers in the immunopathology and diagnosis of UTIs during pregnancy. Routine screening, rational antibiotic use, and targeted health education are essential to reduce the incidence and complications of UTIs in this population.

Prevalence of Group B Streptococcus among Individuals in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, South South, Nigeria Edafe Ejiro Patrick; Imarenezor Edobor Peter Kenneth; Anyiam Vivian Ifeoma; Salvage Akpomedaye
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 1 No 1 (2024): 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.v1i1.4036

Streptococcus agalactiae also known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a Gram-positive bacterium that primarily colonizes the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of humans. While it is a commensal organism in many healthy individuals, GBS can become pathogenic, causing a variety of infections. This study investigated the prevalence of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonization among adults in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, to assess the distribution of GBS across various age groups and between sexes. A total of 185 individuals were included in the study which comprises of both male and female across different age groups (16–35 years). The specimens were cultured on Todd-Hewitt broth and Columbia Blood Agar. Morphological and biochemical tests, including Gram staining, CAMP test, and Hippurate Hydrolysis test, were performed to confirm the presence of GBS.Morphological analysis revealed small to medium-sized, grayish-white, beta-hemolytic colonies with characteristic cocci in pairs or chains, confirming Streptococcus agalactiae. The overall prevalence of GBS colonization was found to be 5.95%, with 5.17% in males and 6.30% in females. The highest prevalence was observed in the age group 31–35 years among females (16.00%) and in the 26–30 age group among males (9.09%). This study result provides essential baseline data on GBS prevalence among individuals in Yenagoa, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and targeted interventions in this area to reduce the risk of GBS transmission.

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