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Knowledge of antibiotic resistance and habits of antibiotic use among medical students of University of Nigeria Enugu: a descriptive cross-sectional survey

1Nwafia, I., 2Nwafia, S.,2Ibeh, P, *3Ajunwa, K., 2Obaje, O.,2Ehimiyen, R.,2Nwachukwu, L., 2Promise, G., 2Eze, S., 2Igono, F.,2Okoli, N., and 2 Nwadike, S.

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

2Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla Campus, Enugu State, Nigeria

3Microbiology Research Laboratory, Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: ajunwakelechi@gmail.com; +2348062402014 Abstract:

Background: The adverse effects of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are manifesting worldwide. A major con- tributing factor to AMR is the inappropriate use of antimicrobials in humans and animals. It is imperative to raise awareness among medical students of the current public health challenges of AMR and make them antibiotic guardians because they are the future medical doctors. This survey was designed to assess the knowledge of AMR and habits of antimicrobial use (AMU) among medical students as a means to guide them in their future practice. Continue reading “Knowledge of antibiotic resistance and habits of antibiotic use among medical students of University of Nigeria Enugu: a descriptive cross-sectional survey”

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Blood culture contamination in Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria: A five-year retrospective study

1,2Oluwole, T. O., *1,2Otaigbe, I. I., 1Okunbor, H. N., 1Osinowo, A. O., and 1,2Elikwu, C. J.

1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
2Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Benjamin (S) Carson (Snr) College of Health and Medical Sciences, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: otaigbei@babcock.edu.ng; +2348024406763

Abstract:
Background: Bloodstream infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among in-patients globally. Blood culture is the ‘gold standard’ test for the diagnosis of bloodstream infections. The value of this valuable investigation in the diagnosis of infections however may be affected when an organism of questionable evidence is isolated, which occurs mainly due to contamination during the pre-analytical phase. Blood culture contamination can lead to the administration of unnecessary antibiotics, wastage of hospital resources, and risks to patient life. Hence, this study aimed to analyse the blood culture contamination rate in a private tertiary hospital in southwest Nigeria. Continue reading “Blood culture contamination in Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria: A five-year retrospective study”

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Candida bloodstream infection among immunocompromised paediatric patients admitted to the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

*1Anozie, C. E., 2Okesola, A., 3Makanjuola, O., 4Ayanbekun, T., 5Mohammed, A. R., and 6Fasuyi, T.

1Department of Medical Microbiology, Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University College Hospital Ibadan, Nigeria

3Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University College Hospital Ibadan, Nigeria

4Department of Medical Microbiology, Federal Medical Centre, Bida, Niger State, Nigeria

5Department of Medical Microbiology, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria 6Department of Medical Microbiology, Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: anoziechikezie@gmail.com; 08035607642

Abstract:
Background: Invasive candidiasis is a major hospital acquired fungal infection in Nigeria. Despite advances in support of critically ill patients, candidaemia is still associated with high morbidity and mortality. Data on Candida bloodstream infection among paediatric patients is limited in Nigeria and this informed this study, which was undertaken to investigate the prevalence, species distribution, antifungal susceptibility pattern for blood stream infections due to Candida species in University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Continue reading “Candida bloodstream infection among immunocompromised paediatric patients admitted to the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria”

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Draft metagenome-assembled genomes of Pseudomonas putida isolated from human gut microbiome in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Anunobi, Oluchukwu Ogechukwu

Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Correspondence to: oluchukwu.anunobi@binghamuni.edu.ng; 07034439524; ORCID: 0000-0003-2047-5313

Abstract:
The metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) sequences of Pseudomonas putida PP14A and PP20A were obtained by metagenomic sequencing from the gut microbiomes of a female and a male patient both 24 years old from the same household presenting to a health outreach laboratory with complaint of headache, and occasional diarrhoea in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The phylogenetic relationship observed between the two PP MAGs with other Pseudomonas spp MAGs from human, points to the global spread of Pseudomonas putida through human activity and migration. Continue reading “Draft metagenome-assembled genomes of Pseudomonas putida isolated from human gut microbiome in Nasarawa State, Nigeria”

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Need for standardization and compliance to treatment protocols for COVID-19 within the African Region of the World Health Organization

*1Fuller, W. L., 1Mukankubito, I., 1Nikiema, J. B., 1Ali Ahmed, Y., and 2Aboderin, A. O.
1World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo 2Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria *Correspondence to: wfuller@who.int

Abstract:
COVID-19 pandemic changed the face of global health and brought about new issues in global health security and economy. The World Health Organization published guidelines for clinical management of COVID-19 four months after declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic. Scholarly reviews and studies from member states within WHO AFRO reveals significant deviation from the WHO published protocols on COVID-19. Assessment of national treatment protocols of 30 of 47 WHO AFRO member states showed widespread inappropriate use of antimicrobial agents for patients, which may worsen the global and concerning threat of antimicrobial resistance. There is need for adopting interventions that optimize antimicrobial use in the context of pre- and post-pandemic preparedness to ensure long-term effectiveness and sustainability for antimicrobials. Treatment guidelines are to be adopted or adapted depending on best clinical evidence available. Non-compliance with guidelines might lead to mismanagement of infectious diseases with attendant negative consequences including antimicrobial resistance and misdirection of critical resources and supplies amongst others. Continue reading “Need for standardization and compliance to treatment protocols for COVID-19 within the African Region of the World Health Organization”

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Prematurity as a secondary immunodeficiency disorder with increased risk of infections: A mini-review

*1Ibraheem, R. M., and 2Issa, A.

1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Ilorin and University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, PMB 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria

2Department of Paediatrics, Children Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: ibraheem.rm@unilorin.edu.ng;

rasheedahbidmus@yahoo.com +2348033704168; ORCID: 0000-0002-3960-9740

Abstract:
Prematurity significantly increases neonatal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Underdeveloped immune systems and prolonged hospitalization elevate the risk of secondary immunodeficiency leading to heightened vulnerability to healthcare-associated infections, including neonatal sepsis from various sources like intrauterine, intrapartum, and postnatal agents. This review explores the impact of prematurity on infection susceptibility and the role of immature immunity. A literature search using PubMed and Google Scholar identified relevant articles published between January 1980 and December 2022, focusing on terms such as “preterm,” “prematurity,” “neonatal sepsis,” and “secondary immunodeficiency.” Despite neonatal susceptibility to sepsis, accurate incidence estimates are lacking in many countries, and preterm infants face higher morbidity and mortality risks compared to full-term babies. Early-onset infections usually manifest within the first 72 hours post-delivery, while late-onset neonatal sepsis occurs after this period. Immaturity affects various immune system components, with gestational age influencing functionality. The compromised innate immune response in preterm infants involves factors such as fragile skin, reduced tear/mucus production, and low antimicrobial peptide levels. Complement deficiencies and impaired neutrophil function increase susceptibility to infections. Macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells exhibit reduced activity, impacting viral clearance. Preterm infants also have lower immunoglobulin (Ig) G levels, contributing to a weakened adaptive immune response. Hypogammaglobulinaemia heightens susceptibility to infections relying on antibody-mediated protection, while low secretory IgA production and delayed antibody response predispose to gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. The combined effect of immature immunity and medical interventions heightens preterm infants’ susceptibility to pathogens. Recommendations for mitigating infection risks include antimicrobial stewardship, prompt initiation of exclusive breastfeeding, and timely administration of routine vaccinations. Continue reading “Prematurity as a secondary immunodeficiency disorder with increased risk of infections: A mini-review”

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COVID-19 in children aged 0-15 years seen at Amirou Boubacar Diallo National Hospital in Niamey, Niger, 2020-2021

1,2Idé Amadou, H., 3Mahamadou Yacouba, M., 2,4Dodo, B., 5Boua Togola, O., 2,4Aboubacar, S., 6Ousmane, A., 2,4Garba, M., and 2Mainassara, S.

1Medical and Health Research Center (CERMES), BP: 10887, Niamey, Niger

2Amirou Boubacar Diallo National Hospital (HNABD), BP: 10146, Niamey, Niger

3Direction of Surveillance and Response to Epidemics (DSRE), BP: 623, Niamey, Niger

4Faculty of Health Sciences, Abdou Moumouni University of Niamey, BP: 10146, Niamey, Niger 5General Direction of Health and Public Hygiene, BP: 233, Bamako, Mali 6Faculty of Health Sciences, Dan Dicko Dan Koulodo University of Maradi, Niger *Correspondence to: ide.habibatou@yahoo.fr; Tel: 00 227 91 12 50 30/ 98 34 36 68

Abstract:
Background: In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic affected all age groups. Although COVID-19 is generally benign in children, a diagnostic problem may arise due to clinical similarities with certain pathologies such as malaria, dengue fever and influenza. The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiological profile of COVID 19 in children seen at consultation and to determine the prevalence of influenza, malaria and dengue fever as differential diagnoses. Continue reading “COVID-19 in children aged 0-15 years seen at Amirou Boubacar Diallo National Hospital in Niamey, Niger, 2020-2021”

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Predominant amino acid substitutions in NS5B gene of hepatitis C virus in blood donors and treatment-naïve hepatitis and HIV patients in Nigeria

*1Shenge, J. A., 2Odaibo, G. N., and 2Olaleye, D. O.
1Virology Research Unit, Biological Sciences, Dominican University, Ibadan, Nigeria 2Department of Virology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria *Correspondence to: jadamma@yahoo.com; +2348099711012

Abstract:
Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genome undergoes high rate of mutation, which results in generation of genetically diverse HCV isolates. There is paucity of data on mutations in the nonstructural 5b (NS5b) gene of circulating HCV and their implications in the Nigerian population. Here, we identified clinically-important mutations in HCV isolates, which may influence response to therapy and disease prognosis. Continue reading “Predominant amino acid substitutions in NS5B gene of hepatitis C virus in blood donors and treatment-naïve hepatitis and HIV patients in Nigeria”

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Serological and molecular detection of hepatitis C virus among students in a tertiary educational institution in Calabar, Nigeria

*1Mbah, M., 1Nwabunike, V. O., 1Akpan, S. S., 2Tangban, E. E., and 1Bassey, E. E.

1Department of Medical Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria

2Department of Social Works, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
*Correspondence to: mauricembah@yahoo.fr; +2347039121644; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-1985-2925X

Abstract:
Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health problem and continues to be a major disease burden in the world, associated with serious health challenges including liver cirrhosis, cancer, lymphomas and death. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of HCV infection among students of the University of Calabar. Continue reading “Serological and molecular detection of hepatitis C virus among students in a tertiary educational institution in Calabar, Nigeria”

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Molecular detection of antimicrobial resistance genes in multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria isolated from clinical samples in two hospitals in Niger

*1Abdoulaye, O., 2Abdoulaye, I., 3Alassane Halawen, M., 4Ibrahim Mamadou, A. K., 1,5Maman Sani Falissou, S., 5,6Adamou Amatagas, S., 1Boureima, H., 2Boubacar Issaka, B., 2Ide, H., 7Yacouba, A., 1,5Sidi Maman Bacha, B., 3Chaibou, S., 2Hamadou, I., 1Harouna Amadou, M. L., 2Ousmane, S., 5Doutchi, M., and 7Mamadou, S.

1Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Dan Dicko Dankoulodo de Maradi, BP 465, Niger

2Centre de Recherche Médicale et Sanitaire, Niamey, Niger

3Hôpital Général de Référence de Niamey, Niger

4Centre Hospitalier Régional de Dosso, Niger

5Hôpital National de Zinder, Niger

6Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Université André Salifou de Zinder, Niger

7Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Université Abdou Moumouni, Niamey, Niger

*Correspondence to: ousmaneabdoulaye2010@yahoo.com; Cel: (+227) 96354580

Abstract:
Background: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), bacterial resistance to antibiotics is a global public health challenge, which is also developing in Niger. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance genes in Gram-negative bacilli isolated from clinical samples in the biological laboratories of two selected health facilities in Niger. Continue reading “Molecular detection of antimicrobial resistance genes in multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria isolated from clinical samples in two hospitals in Niger”