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Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp from stool samples of people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Maiduguri, Nigeria

*1,[1]Kadaura, M. U., 1Abubakar, J., 2Baba, A. S., 3Askira, M. U., 2Ali, K. B., 4Yakubu, Y. M., 4Daggash, B. B., 4Baba, S. A., 5Mohammed, Y., 2Gadzama, G. B., and 4Zailani, S. B.

1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Federal University of    Health Sciences Azare, Bauchi State, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

3Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital,  Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria                          5Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: Umulsan4maryam@gmail.com, Mairo.kadaura@fuhsa.edu.ng,.

Abstract:

Background: Cryptosporidium is an important cause of diarrhea in immuno-compromised individuals including children. Recent advances in molecular techniques have led to the discovery of different species that are more commonly associated with diarrhea. This study aimed at isolating and characterizing the Cryptosporidium spp among HIV patients with diarrhea in Maiduguri, Nigeria. Continue reading “Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp from stool samples of people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Maiduguri, Nigeria”

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Cytomegalovirus co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus among children in State Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

*[1]Bamisaye, O. E., [2],[3],[4]Omoruyi, E. C., 1Badmus, M. M., 1Osuide, M. E., and 5Salami, O. L.

1Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

2Institute of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria      3Clinical Virology Laboratory, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Edo University, Iyamho, Nigeria 5Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: bamisayeseyi@gmail.com

Abstract:

Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) poses significant global challenges with possible complications of disease progression in children and adolescents, especially in resource-limited settings. This study investigates the prevalence of CMV among children living with HIV as well as their viral load dynamics and immunological status correlates. Continue reading “Cytomegalovirus co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus among children in State Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria”

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A mini-review of the global implications of the emerging SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant: Epidemiology, mutations, and mitigation strategies

1,2Ebede, S. O., 1,2Emeribe, S. C., 1,2Nwafia, I. N., 1,2Okeke, U. C., and *1,2Orabueze, I. N.

1Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla Campus, Enugu, Nigeria

2Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria*

Correspondence to: Iborabueze@gmail.com; ORCID: 0009-0005-8369-1568

Abstract:

The newly emerged SARS- CoV-2 XEC subvariant (XEC) is a global public health concern. Since its first detection in May 2024, it has spread rapidly to involve more than 45 countries globally. The World Health Organization and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention designated XEC a variant under monitoring (VUM), highlighting its global concern. XEC sub-variant is a descendant of the omicron lineage and a recombinant product of K.S.1.1 and KP3.3. Increased infectivity, enhanced immune evasion, and immune resistance, have been linked to specific spike protein mutations, S: F59S and S: T22N, alongside Apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide 3 (APOBEC3)-driven mutations that facilitate immune escape and viral survival. Like its predecessor, the novel SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant exhibits flu-like symptoms. However, there is no evidence that it causes more severe illness than previously circulating Omicron variants. Nevertheless, the high reproduction number (Re) of the XEC variant suggests a higher chance of out competing the other major lineages. Wastewater surveillance has shown that XEC variant circulation is approximately 2 to 19 times higher than the number of cases that have been identified. This suggests that underreporting, decreased testing and declining genomic surveillance in many countries may be masking the true epidemiological burden of XEC. Mitigation strategies must prioritize mass vaccination campaigns, incorporating updated 2024-2025 vaccines and infection prevention and control measures. Sadly, vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge to the achievement of herd immunity. To address this, targeted public enlightenment campaigns are essential. Additionally, proactive and collaborative global efforts are necessary to curb the spread of emerging variants like XEC. Strengthened IPC practices, and sustained genomic surveillance will be critical in averting future waves and mitigating public health impacts. This review serves to provide insight into the XEC variant and call for action to prevent another looming pandemic. Continue reading “A mini-review of the global implications of the emerging SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant: Epidemiology, mutations, and mitigation strategies”

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Recent update on the mechanism and epidemiology of metallo-β-lactamases in nosocomial infections: A mini review

*Eze, I. F 0009-0007-7286-9273., Adeoye-Isijola, M. O 0000-0002-3186-5432., Adefisoye, M. A 0000-0002-4957-4609., and Olajuyigbe, O. O 0000-0002-7889-0416

Department of Microbiology, School of Science and Technology, Babcock University, Ogun State, Nigeria *Correspondence to: ezeifyfaith@gmail.com

Abstract:
Metallo-β-lactamases are different types of biological enzymes that breakdown a broad spectrum of beta-lactam antibiotics such as carbapenems. Antibiotic resistance exhibited by many Gram-negative bacteria is due to acquisition of genes encoding these enzymes, which underscores their importance in antibiotic resistance and has led to an increase in nosocomial infections caused by multi-drug-resistant pathogens. This review analyzes recent updates on the mechanism of antibiotic resistance and epidemiology of metallo-β- lactamases in nosocomial infections. Carbapenem antibiotics are regarded as effective and reserve antibiotics for the treatment of multidrug-resistant bacteria infections. Currently, there is paucity of inhibitors that prevent the activities of metallo beta-lactamase clinically. Carbapenem resistance in bacteria is a global health issue, associated with increased morbidity and mortality in the healthcare setting. There is a need for continuous research on metallo-β-lactamases inhibitors, rational use of carbapenems and appropriate infection control measures in order to curb the increase in infections. This mini-review is aimed to provide a broader scope on the current trends of antimicrobial resistance in metallo-β-lactamase-associated nosocomial infections. This will lead to a better understanding of the public health implication of the unabated spread of these infections, the need for judicious utilization of the limited therapeutic options, resulting to efficient antimicrobial stewardship. Continue reading “Recent update on the mechanism and epidemiology of metallo-β-lactamases in nosocomial infections: A mini review”

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Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us

Authors:
Kamran Abbasi, Editor-in-Chief, BMJ; Parveen Ali, Editor-in-Chief, International Nursing Review; Virginia Barbour, Editor-in-Chief, Medical Journal of Australia; Marion Birch, Editor-in-Chief, Medact & University College London; Inga Blum, At-large Board Member, IPPNW; Peter C. Doherty, 1996 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine; Andy Haines, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine; Ira Helfand, Past President, IPPNW; Richard Horton, Editor-in-Chief, The Lancet; Kati Juva, Co-President, IPPNW; Jose F. Lapena Jr, Vice-President, WAME; Robert Mash, Editor-in-Chief, African Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine; Olga Mironova, Co-President, IPPNW; Arun Mitra, Past President, IPPNW; Carlos Monteiro, Editor-in-Chief, Revista de Saúde Pública; Elena N. Naumova, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Public Health Policy; David Onazi, Co-President, IPPNW; Tilman Ruff, Past President, IPPNW; Peush Sahni, Editor-in-Chief, National Medical Journal of India; James Tumwine, Editor-in-Chief, African Health Sciences; Carlos Umaña, Co-President, IPPNW; Paul Yonga, Editor-in-Chief, East African Medical Journal Continue reading “Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us”

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A narrative review exploring phage therapy as a sustainable alternative solution to combat antimicrobial resistance in Africa: Applications, challenges and future directions

1Obidi N. O., and 2Ekpunobi, N. F.

1Department of Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

2Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: nzubefavour34@gmail.com

 

Abstract:

The increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Africa, coupled with limited access to advanced antibiotics and high rates of bacterial infections poses serious public health challenge. Bacteriophages, viruses that target and destroy bacteria, present a promising alternative or complementary therapy to traditional antibiotics. Phage therapy leverages its unique ability to target specific bacterial strains without affecting the host beneficial microbiota. It is an effective tool against multi-drug-resistant (MDR) microbial pathogens, particularly in resource-limited settings. This narrative review explores the potentials of phage therapy in Africa, highlighting its advantages, such as specificity, minimal side effects, and cost-effectiveness, alongside its capability to tackle biofilm-associated and AMR infections. It discusses current research and collaborations, including case studies from Nigeria, Benin, and South Africa that demonstrate the efficacy of phage therapy against bacterial pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Furthermore, it discusses the challenges to phage therapy implementation such as regulatory hurdles, public skepticism, and infrastructure limitations, while emphasizing the importance of developing local production and awareness campaigns. The review concludes by recommending the integration of phage therapy into Africa healthcare strategies to address AMR. Through strategic partnerships, education and regulatory frameworks, phage therapy could become a transformative solution, particularly for neglected diseases and infections common in low-resource settings. As Africa seeks innovative approaches to its growing AMR crisis, phage therapy stands out as a viable and adaptable option.

Continue reading “A narrative review exploring phage therapy as a sustainable alternative solution to combat antimicrobial resistance in Africa: Applications, challenges and future directions”

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The journey to institutionalising Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) in a resource-constrained tertiary healthcare facility in Lagos, Nigeria

*1Oduyebo, O. O., 2Fajolu, I. B., 3Oluwarotimi, C. A., [1]Toye, A. K., 5Olugbake, O. A., 1Oshun, P. O.,

4Roberts, A. A., 5Soremekun, R. O., 1Osuagwu, C. S., 5Joda, A. E.,  6Rotimi,  M. K., 2Akintan, P. E., 7Chuka-Ebene, V., +LUTH AMSC., 2Temiye, E. A.,  1Akodu, B. A., 8Bode, C. O., 3Adeyemo, W. L., 9Oreagba, I. A., 10Ajuluchukwu, J. N., and 11,12Nnoaham, K. E.

1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria

2Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria

3Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Lagos, Nigeria

4Department of Community Health and Primary Care, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria

5Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, Nigeria

6Department of Anaesthesia, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria

7Department of Pharmacy, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria

8Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria

9Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria

10Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria

11Faculty of Public Health, United Kingdom

12School of Medicine, Cardiff University, United Kingdom

*Correspondence to: ooduyebo@unilag.edu.ng; oyinoduyebo@yahoo.com

+list of members at the end of the article

Abstract:  

Background: Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is one of the main strategies to stem the global tide of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). While developed nations have successfully implemented antimicrobial stewardship programmes, such initiatives remain underdeveloped in many Nigerian healthcare institutions. This is a report of a project to improve the AMS programme at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Nigeria, by strengthening the antimicrobial stewardship committee (AMSC) and antimicrobial stewardship team (AMST) of the hospital. Continue reading “The journey to institutionalising Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) in a resource-constrained tertiary healthcare facility in Lagos, Nigeria”

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Bacterial profile and antibiogram of clinical isolates in a tertiary healthcare facility in northeast Nigeria: Initial steps towards developing local antibiotic guidelines and antimicrobial stewardship programme

*[1]Manga, M. M., 1Ibrahim, M., [2],[3]Ali, M. W., 4Warnow, I. E., 5Guduf, M. I., 6Farouk, H. U., 1Charanci, M. S., 1Galadima, G. B., and 2,3,7Fadare, J. O.

1Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Gombe State University / Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Nigeria

2Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria

3Department of Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Nigeria

4Department of Paediatrics, Gombe State University / Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Nigeria

5Department of Surgery, Gombe State University / Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Nigeria

6Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gombe State University / Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, Nigeria

7Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria *Correspondence to: drmmanga@gsu.edu.ng; +2348036781726

Abstract:

Background: Antibiograms and antibiotic guidelines are important tools for appropriate prescribing practices in combating the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) challenge. They serve as a prelude to an evidence-based Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) program, which is necessary for better Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) activities, especially in low-resource settings like Nigeria. This study determined the bacterial profile and antibiogram of clinical isolates in a tertiary healthcare facility in Gombe, northeastern Nigeria. Continue reading “Bacterial profile and antibiogram of clinical isolates in a tertiary healthcare facility in northeast Nigeria: Initial steps towards developing local antibiotic guidelines and antimicrobial stewardship programme”

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Bacterial etiology of spreading odontogenic infection in southwest Nigeria using the 16S rRNA next generation sequencing technique

[1],[2],[3]Famurewa, B. A., 1,2Uwanibe, J. N., 1,2Olawoye, I. B., 2Eromon, P., 3Aregbesola, S. B., 3Oginni, F. O., 1,2Happi, C. T., and *1,2Folarin, O. A.

1Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University,  PMB 230, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria

2African Center of Excellence for the Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, PMB 230, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria

3Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria                                                  *Correspondence to: folarino@run.edu.ng; ORCID No: 0000-0001-7283-2920

Abstract:

Background: Genomics surveillance and characterization of pathogens have enabled prompt and accurate diagnosis, for improved management and control of infectious diseases. This study aimed to identify bacteria associated with spreading odontogenic infections (SOIs) among patients visiting the Dental Center of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, Nigeria, by sequencing 16S rRNA gene of the bacteria. Continue reading “Bacterial etiology of spreading odontogenic infection in southwest Nigeria using the 16S rRNA next generation sequencing technique”

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Prevalence and aetiological agents of childhood urinary tract infections at the University Teaching Hospital (CHU) of Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire

*1,2Gawa, K. J., 1,2Monemo, P., 1,2N’Guessan, M., 1,2Tadet, J. O. N., 3Oka, K. H.,         3Akanji, I. A., 3Koné, M. O., 1Vaho, M., 1Traoré, F., and 1,2Akoua Koffi, C.

 1Laboratoire Bactériologie-Virologie, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire de Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire

2UFR des Sciences Médical, Université Alassane Ouattara, BP 1174 Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire

3Service de Pédiatrie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire de Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire *Correspondant à: kokoragawa@gmail.com; +2250709885690

 

Abstract:

 Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in paediatric environment. The microbial ecology is often modified by over-prescription of antibiotics. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and etiological agents responsible for paediatric UTIs, with a view to improving care for children in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire. Continue reading “Prevalence and aetiological agents of childhood urinary tract infections at the University Teaching Hospital (CHU) of Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire”