A Cross-Sectional Survey on the Impact of Malaria Intervention Measures on Prevalence and Vectorial Infection Rates in Parts of Imo State, Nigeria.
Abstract
There is a dearth of information on the Impact of malarial intervention measures on vectorial infection rates in the study area. This study therefore investigated the Impact of malaria intervention measures on prevalence and vectorial infection rates in two Local Government Areas of Imo State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross sectional design involving 735 participants aged 5 years to >60 years, division of study subjects into four groups and was conducted between July 2023 and May 2024. Participants blood were collected and processed using Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs). Indoor resting malaria vectors collected by pyrethrum knock down (PKD) were assessed for parasitological/entomological indices with standard methods. Malarial intervention compliance was monitored and impact assessed by comparing results from different intervention measures/cohorts. Overall, pre-intervention malaria prevalence (26.12%) were five times significantly higher than intervention prevalence result 9.05% (P<0.05). All intervention measures Insecticide treated bednet (ITNs), Indoor residual spray (IRS) and Prophalytic drugs (Drugs) reduced malaria prevalence significantly (P0.05). Species from NICs; Anopheles gambiae (44.81%) and An. funestus (32.05%) were higher than those from ICs Anopheles gambiae (14.84%) and An. funestus (3.44%). NICs had more parous mosquitoes, ICs had comparable sporozoite rates (1.36% vs 2.06%), Entomological Inoculation Rate (0.099 vs 0.0331) and infectivity rates (1.05% vs 0.59%). In conclusion, this study suggests that malaria management efforts should involve integrated strategy that revolves on proper environmental sanitation and human behavioural patterns.
Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance of E. Coli in Urinary Tract Infections Among Pregnant Women in Nigeria.
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a significant health issue for pregnant women, primarily due to physiological and anatomical changes during pregnancy that increase susceptibility. This review investigates the prevalence and antibiotic resistance patterns of Escherichia coli (E. coli), the leading cause of UTIs in pregnant women in Nigeria. Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) has been identified as the primary pathogen, with studies indicating high prevalence rates across various regions of Nigeria. The rise in antibiotic-resistant UPEC strains poses a considerable challenge for treatment, often leading to complications. Contributing factors include poor socioeconomic conditions, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the misuse of antibiotics, which exacerbate the situation. The review evaluates various diagnostic methods, including urine culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, emphasizing the necessity for accurate and timely detection to effectively manage UTIs. The impact of UTIs during pregnancy is significant, potentially resulting in preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal morbidity if untreated. The importance of routine screening, antibiotic stewardship, and enhanced surveillance is highlighted as essential strategies to mitigate these adverse outcomes and improve maternal and neonatal health. Public health interventions are urgently needed to enhance diagnostic infrastructure, implement effective antibiotic stewardship programs, and strengthen surveillance of antibiotic resistance patterns. Additionally, educating healthcare providers and patients on the prudent use of antibiotics and the importance of early detection and treatment of UTIs is crucial. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving improved healthcare practices, policies, and continuous research, aiming to enhance health outcomes for both mothers and infants in Nigeria.
