Nnachi, A. U - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Nnachi, A. U

Schistosomiasis and typhoid fever caused by blood flukes and Salmonella bacteria respectively are... more Schistosomiasis and typhoid fever caused by blood flukes and Salmonella bacteria respectively are leading infectious diseases in most tropical parts of the world especially in sub-Saharan Africa. In countries where both are endemic, co-infection is a consistent reality. This study therefore investigated the incidence of dual Schistosoma mansoni and enteric Salmonella species infections in patients from Eldin Specialist and Plateau Specialist Hospitals, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. In this, a total of 250 each of blood and stool samples were collected from 250 patients who showed positive for widal tests and were receiving health care from the two hospitals. The samples were analyzed using standard methods which included culture, concentration and agglutination (Widal) techniques. Out of the 250 widal-positive patients used, only 34 (13.6%) were positive for typhoid fever by stool culture. The prevalence rates of the dual infections were observed to be 22 (8.8%) and 6 (2.4%) by Widal...

Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause o... more Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause of low birth weight in infants and other complications. The contribution of malaria infection to maternal anaemia in pregnancy has been well-documented in most other countries. This study, therefore, investigated the incidence of antenatal malaria parasitaemia and haemoglobin profile of pregnant women in Enugu East Local Government Area, Enugu, Nigeria. Seven hundred (700) capillary blood samples were collected from women that were made up of 210 primiparae, 390 multiparae and 100 non-pregnant (that served as the control group), and tested for presence of malaria parasites and haemoglobin profile using microscopy and a portable β-haemoglobin photometer (HamoCue, Hemo Cue AB, Angelholm, Sweden) respectively. The result showed that majority of the malaria positive participants were anaemic with haemoglobin (HB) below 11g/dl. There were more positive cases among primigravidae (first pregnanc...

Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one... more Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one of the most serious environmental problems that have greatly impacted human health. Basic quality parameters of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Local Government Area were studied in the months of September, 2014 and October, 2014. Samples were randomly collected from common water sources (well, stream, borehole, and pond) across four communities in the Local Government Area. The physicochemical characteristics of the collected water samples were investigated using standard procedures. The results showed mean pH values of 7.3, 7.8, 6.8 and 7.0 for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The colour examination showed: 13 HU, 11 HU, 13 HU, and 16 HU for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The turbidity were recorded as 103 NTU (well), 90 NTU (stream), 0.8 NTU (borehole) and 92 NTU (pond). Total dissolved solids (TDS) showed a record of 595 mg/L,...

International Journal of Scientific & Technology Research, 2014

Malaria and typhoid fever are major aetiological considerations in both acute and prolonged fever... more Malaria and typhoid fever are major aetiological considerations in both acute and prolonged fever of unknown origin (PUO) in the tropics. Because of the high prevalence of malaria and typhoid fever in Nigeria, co-infections are common. This study investigated the incidence of Salmonella enterica serovar typhi and Plasmodium species in febrile patients in Jos, Nigeria. A total of 300 each of blood and stool samples were collected from patients presenting febrile conditions suggestive of malaria and typhoid fever and analyzed using parasitological, agglutination (Widal) and stool culture techniques. All isolates were identified as Salmonella enteric serovar typhi using standard microbiological techniques. The results revealed that 162(54%} patients were positive for malaria parasites out of which 68(42%} had typhoid fever by Widal test and 9(5.6%} by stool culture test. A correlation analysis showed a strong relationship between malaria parasite and Salmonella typhi both by Widal test...

African Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2017

Background: Schistosomiasis, a chronic, debilitating and neglected tropical and subtropical water... more Background: Schistosomiasis, a chronic, debilitating and neglected tropical and subtropical water-borne ailment, is highly endemic in Nigeria, especially among primary school children in rural communities. The study on the variability of urine parameters in children infected with Schistosoma haematobium in Ukawu community, Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was undertaken. Materials and Methods: Urine samples were aseptically collected from 400 primary school children in the community and analysed using chemical reagent strips and sedimentation techniques. Results: The study revealed an overall prevalence of 27% as 108 pupils out of 400 were infected with S. haematobium in the area. Proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia were observed to occur in 67.0%, 79.0% and 74.9% respectively. Males had higher infections and higher occurrences of proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia (72.5%, 88.2% and 82.4% respectively). There was no significant difference with respect to sex (P<0.05). Children within ages 12-15 years had the highest prevalence of S. haematobium (35.5%) while those within the ages of 4-7 had the least prevalence (11.4%). The difference in the rate of infection between the different age groups was significant, statistically (P>0.05). Children within ages 12-15 had the highest occurrence of proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia while children within ages 4-7 had the least occurrence of the three urine parameters. All the pupils excreting above 40 egg/10ml of urine had proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia. Conclusion: The study revealed that the community studied is endemic with Schistosoma haematobium infections and the level of the urine parameters increased with the intensity of infection. Prompt case detection and treatment, good personal hygiene, eradication of snail hosts, public enlightenment and proper waste disposal are hereby recommended.

PLOS ONE, 2016

Background Infections are common complications in critically ill patients with associated signifi... more Background Infections are common complications in critically ill patients with associated significant morbidity and mortality. Aim This study determined the prevalence, risk factors, clinical outcome and microbiological profile of hospital-acquired infections in the intensive care unit of a Nigerian tertiary hospital.

Journal of Applied Life Sciences International, 2016

Aims: The investigation of faecal coliform contamination of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Loca... more Aims: The investigation of faecal coliform contamination of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria was undertaken. Study Design: This was a descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: Ebonyi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria from September, 2014 to October, 2014. Methodology: Samples from different water bodies in each of four communities in Ebonyi Local Government area were collected and analyzed using standard bacteriological methods for water analysis. Results: In the four communities, well water samples from Mbeke and Ndiagu communities showed high content of faecal coliform with 50%, and 90% respectively, while faecal coliform from stream water samples was recovered more from Ndiabor and Nkaleke communities with 55.6% and 50% occurrences respectively. The result of the percentage bacteriological analysis showed that the faecal coliform and Escherichia coli have 45% and 12% prevalence respectively in stream water samples, 0% prevalence each in borehole water samples and 12.5% prevalence each in pond water samples. Conclusion: The high presence of faecal coliform bacteria in these water bodies used for drinking, swimming and other domestic purposes is of public health significance considering the possibility of serving as vehicles for disease transmission. Effort should be geared towards educating the inhabitants of the study area on the need for proper disposal of refuse, treatment of sewage and the need to purify their water to make it fit for drinking and other purposes.

Journal of Applied & Environmental Microbiology, Jan 23, 2014

The health and environmental hazards associated with water body contamination by industrial efflu... more The health and environmental hazards associated with water body contamination by industrial effluents cannot be over emphasized. This study investigated the bacteriological and physicochemical qualities of effluents from Ebonyi Fertilizer and Chemical Plant and the impact on Azuiyiokwu Creek, located in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria between May, 2010 and March, 2011. Standard microbiological techniques were used for the isolation and identification of microbial isolates. The physicochemical parameters detected from all the samples investigated include pH, Ca, Cu, Pb, Ni, As, Al, Hg, Co, Zn, Fe, Cr, Na, P, Mg, and Mn. The study shows that the concentrations of the metals were constantly higher in fertilizer effluents, than Azuiyiokwu Creek and the control. There was a significant difference (P≤0.05) in concentration of metals between fertilizer effluents, Azuiyiokwu and the Control Creeks. The results also show that metallic contaminations of Azuiyiokwu Creek could be as a result of the infiltration of effluents from Ebonyi Fertilizer and Chemical Plant into Azuiyiokwu Creek. The study revealed higher bacterial load in the Ebonyi Fertilizer and Chemical plant effluents than Azuiyiokwu and Control Creeks. There was a significant difference (P≤ 0.05) in the microbial counts between the Control and Azuiyiokwu Creek. Bacteria genera encountered in this study include: Staphylococcus, Proteus, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Escherichia, Salmonella, Vibrio and Aeromonas. This shows that the effluents received by Azuiyiokwu creek have low bacteriological and physicochemical qualities and the range of microorganisms isolated in this study raise more serious concern about the public health implications. This reflects the possible pathetic condition of most water bodies in Nigeria. Therefore, adequate measures should be put in place to help ameliorate the deplorable state of our water bodies.

Journal of Advances in Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016

BMC Infectious Diseases, 2016

Background: Malaria remains a major cause of febrile illness in Nigeria and interventions to redu... more Background: Malaria remains a major cause of febrile illness in Nigeria and interventions to reduce malaria burden in Nigeria focus on the use of insecticide-treated nets. This study determined the prevalence of malaria parasitaemia and the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) for the control of malaria amongst under-five year old children in Calabar, Nigeria. Methods: A total of 270 under-5 year old children were recruited and structured questionnaires were used to obtain information on the background characteristics of the respondents from their caregivers. Capillary blood samples were collected from each of the patients through finger-pricking and tested for malaria parasites by Rapid Diagnostic Test and microscopy. Results: An overall parasitaemia prevalence of 32.2 % (by Rapid diagnostic test kit [RDT]) and 40.1 % (by microscopy) were obtained in this study. Forty-six (45.5 %) of the febrile patients had malaria parasitaemia (by RDT) or 41 (59.4 %) by microscopy. One hundred and fifty (55.6 %) of the caregivers acknowledged the use of nets on doors and windows for malaria prevention and control. One hundred and thirty-nine (51.5 %) mentioned sleeping under mosquito net while 138 (51.1 %) acknowledged the use of insecticide sprays. Although 191 (71.5 %) of the households possessed at least one mosquito net, only 25.4 % of the under-5 children slept under any net the night before the survey. No statistically significant reduction in malaria parasitaemia was observed with the use of mosquito nets among the under-5 children. Almost all the respondents (97.8 %) identified mosquito bite as the cause of malaria. Fever was identified by the majority of the respondents (92.2 %) as the most common symptom of malaria. Conclusions: The findings of the study showed high prevalence of parasitaemia and that fever was significantly associated with malaria parasitaemia. Mosquito net utilization among the under-fives was low despite high net ownership rate by households. Therefore, for effective control of malaria, public health education should focus on enlightening the caregivers on signs/symptoms of both uncomplicated and complicated malaria as well as encourage the use of ITNs especially among the under-fives.

British Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2016

British Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2015

Aims: This study investigated the synergistic antimicrobial activity of the extracts of Pleurotus... more Aims: This study investigated the synergistic antimicrobial activity of the extracts of Pleurotus species and Psychotria microphylla against five clinical bacterial isolates: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella Typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus from Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (FETHA), Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Study Design: This was an experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in the Department of Applied Microbiology Laboratory, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria between October, 2014 and December, 2014. Methodology: Antimicrobial components from the mushroom and herb were extracted with water and ethanol. In this, the antimicrobial activities were examined by agar well diffusion method adapted from Kirby Bauer disk diffusion technique against confirmed isolates of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella Typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Original Research Article Udu-ibiam et al.; BJPR, 7(1): 1-8, 2015; Article no.BJPR.2015.085 2 Mixtures of the different extracts (mushroom and herb) at varying ratios (of 1:1, 1:2, 2:1) were also used to determine their synergistic inhibitory effects at 37oC and 24 hours incubation. Inhibition zone diameters were measured and recorded. Results: The result revealed antibacterial activity of the extracts although at varying degrees. All the isolates (except Klebsiella pneumoniae) were sensitive to Psychotria microphylla. The highest sensitivity (7.0 mm) with ethanol extract of the herb was observed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, closely followed by Salmonella Typhi (5.0 mm) and then Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (4.0 mm each). Although the herb showed a wider range of antimicrobial activity against the tested isolates than the mushroom, Klebsiella pneumoniae was sensitive (6.0 mm). The herb-mushroom extract combination produced a better antimicrobial activity against the isolates with a very high sensitivity of 16.0 mm recorded against S. aureus as compared to the highest sensitivity (10.00 mm) produced by Ampiclox against S. Typhi. The activity of Pleurotus sp was independent of the extract (p-value=0.189), meaning that the difference in zones of inhibition in relation to extract types was not significant (p>0.05). P. microphylla activities was dependent on the type of extract (p-value=0.031). ); that is, the difference in zones of inhibition produced by P. microphylla in relation to extract types was significant (p<0.05). The most efficient ratio of synergy was the 1:2 ratios which involved one part of Pleurotus species and two parts of P. microphylla. Conclusion: The synergistic effect produced by Psychotria microphylla and Pleurotus species holds a good promise in the treatment of infections caused by tested bacteria and should be harnessed and patented.

American Journal of Life Sciences, 2014

The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among the... more The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among the newly admitted students of University of Jos, Jos Nigeria. A total of 300 newly admitted students were screened using rapid test (Global Rapid Diagnostic Kits USA) for the detection of HBsAg in serum samples from July 20 I0 to October 20 IO. The results obtained showed that 50(16.7%) were seropositive to HBsAg. The prevalence of HBsAg was higher in males 34(11.33%) compared to 16(5.33%) in females. Age specific prevalence was significantly higher in the age bracket 25-29, with 16(28.57%) and the lowest was found in the age bracket 15-19 years with 12(17.39%). The most important risk factors in the acquisition ofHBsAg as revealed in this study appear to be: Family History of hepatitis, 11 (36.6%), those with multiple sexual partners 4(13.79%), blood transfusion 3(13.64%), and tribal mark 3(13.04%). The prevalence of HBV recorded among newly admitted students in this study is probably a reflection of the situation in Nigerian Universities. Therefore, urgent preventive measures should be taken to set up campaign against transmission of HBV in University of 10s and the general population. To lower HBV prevalence, an adequate program of active screening and vaccination for students should be implemented, followed by a universal active immunization program.

International Journal of Scientific & Technology Research, 2014

The demand, high costs and health implications of using energy derived from hydrocarbon compound ... more The demand, high costs and health implications of using energy derived from hydrocarbon compound have necessitated the continuous search for alternative source of energy. Cow dung as a renewable source of energy supply has been proven to be very efficient. This study investigated the production of biogas using cow dung from Abakaliki abattoir located in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A 2ml/g of the cow dung was used in this study. The digestion was carried out in a 10 L anaerobic digester at a temperature of 25 0 C to 30 0 C and uncontrolled pH for a period of 3 weeks. About 23 cm 3 of biogas was produced on the 22 nd day. Thus biogas production from cow dung is a good and cheap alternative source of energy. The use of biogas will not only serve as a source of fuel but will also help in the management of waste. The biomass generated after digestion can be used both as animal feed and to improve soil fertility. It is therefore recommended that large scale production of biogas from...

African Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2016

Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one... more Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one of the most serious environmental problems that have greatly impacted human health. Basic quality parameters of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Local Government Area were studied in the months of September, 2014 and October, 2014. Samples were randomly collected from common water sources (well, stream, borehole, and pond) across four communities in the Local Government Area. The physicochemical characteristics of the collected water samples were investigated using standard procedures. The results showed mean pH values of 7.3, 7.8, 6.8 and 7.0 for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The colour examination showed: 13 HU, 11 HU, 13 HU, and 16 HU for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The turbidity were recorded as 103 NTU (well), 90 NTU (stream), 0.8 NTU (borehole) and 92 NTU (pond). Total dissolved solids (TDS) showed a record of 595 mg/L, 386mg/L, 76 mg/L, and 563 mg/L for well, stream, borehole and pond respectively. Well water recorded 78 mg/L, stream (112 mg/L), borehole (42 mg/L), and pond (795 mg/L) for Total Suspended Solids respectively. Also, the total hardness showed 525 mg/L, 779 mg/L, 44 mg/L, and 837 mg/L for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The results show that most of the common sources of water in the studied areas are not good for drinking since the physicochemical variables evaluated mostly exceeded WHO permissible limits. We therefore recommend that water treatment should be paramount as alternative sources of drinking water in the communities should be considered.

Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause o... more Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause of low birth weight in infants and other complications. The contribution of malaria infection to maternal anaemia in pregnancy has been well-documented in most other countries. This study, therefore, investigated the incidence of antenatal malaria parasitaemia and haemoglobin profile of pregnant women in Enugu East Local Government Area, Enugu, Nigeria. Seven hundred (700) capillary blood samples were collected from women that were made up of 210 primiparae, 390 multiparae and 100 non-pregnant (that served as the control group), and tested for presence of malaria parasites and haemoglobin profile using microscopy and a portable β-haemoglobin photometer (HamoCue, Hemo Cue AB, Angelholm, Sweden) respectively. The result showed that majority of the malaria positive participants were anaemic with haemoglobin (HB) below 11g/dl. There were more positive cases among primigravidae (first pregnancy) and there were also downward gradation in the intensity of malaria from primiparae to control group. Prevalence of malaria parasitaemia was found to be 55.56% at Annunciation hospital and 60.06% at Park lane hospital which was higher than prevalence of 22.00% and 16.00%% among non pregnant women used as control. The results showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the primigravidae, and multigravidae (more pregnancies). Women between the age ranges of 18 – 28 were most infected. The findings of this study have proven that primiparae have high susceptibility to malaria in endemic regions. Also, anaemia was associated with malaria in pregnancy. There is need to intensify effort in malaria prevention on pregnant women. Educational campaign is recommended at all levels to improve the awareness of malaria and preventive measures. Attack on malaria by provision of access to effective treatment and reduction of access with the vector is as well recommended.

Schistosomiasis and typhoid fever caused by blood flukes and Salmonella bacteria respectively are... more Schistosomiasis and typhoid fever caused by blood flukes and Salmonella bacteria respectively are leading infectious diseases in most tropical parts of the world especially in sub-Saharan Africa. In countries where both are endemic, co-infection is a consistent reality. This study therefore investigated the incidence of dual Schistosoma mansoni and enteric Salmonella species infections in patients from Eldin Specialist and Plateau Specialist Hospitals, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. In this, a total of 250 each of blood and stool samples were collected from 250 patients who showed positive for widal tests and were receiving health care from the two hospitals. The samples were analyzed using standard methods which included culture, concentration and agglutination (Widal) techniques. Out of the 250 widal-positive patients used, only 34 (13.6%) were positive for typhoid fever by stool culture. The prevalence rates of the dual infections were observed to be 22 (8.8%) and 6 (2.4%) by Widal...

Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause o... more Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause of low birth weight in infants and other complications. The contribution of malaria infection to maternal anaemia in pregnancy has been well-documented in most other countries. This study, therefore, investigated the incidence of antenatal malaria parasitaemia and haemoglobin profile of pregnant women in Enugu East Local Government Area, Enugu, Nigeria. Seven hundred (700) capillary blood samples were collected from women that were made up of 210 primiparae, 390 multiparae and 100 non-pregnant (that served as the control group), and tested for presence of malaria parasites and haemoglobin profile using microscopy and a portable β-haemoglobin photometer (HamoCue, Hemo Cue AB, Angelholm, Sweden) respectively. The result showed that majority of the malaria positive participants were anaemic with haemoglobin (HB) below 11g/dl. There were more positive cases among primigravidae (first pregnanc...

Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one... more Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one of the most serious environmental problems that have greatly impacted human health. Basic quality parameters of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Local Government Area were studied in the months of September, 2014 and October, 2014. Samples were randomly collected from common water sources (well, stream, borehole, and pond) across four communities in the Local Government Area. The physicochemical characteristics of the collected water samples were investigated using standard procedures. The results showed mean pH values of 7.3, 7.8, 6.8 and 7.0 for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The colour examination showed: 13 HU, 11 HU, 13 HU, and 16 HU for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The turbidity were recorded as 103 NTU (well), 90 NTU (stream), 0.8 NTU (borehole) and 92 NTU (pond). Total dissolved solids (TDS) showed a record of 595 mg/L,...

International Journal of Scientific & Technology Research, 2014

Malaria and typhoid fever are major aetiological considerations in both acute and prolonged fever... more Malaria and typhoid fever are major aetiological considerations in both acute and prolonged fever of unknown origin (PUO) in the tropics. Because of the high prevalence of malaria and typhoid fever in Nigeria, co-infections are common. This study investigated the incidence of Salmonella enterica serovar typhi and Plasmodium species in febrile patients in Jos, Nigeria. A total of 300 each of blood and stool samples were collected from patients presenting febrile conditions suggestive of malaria and typhoid fever and analyzed using parasitological, agglutination (Widal) and stool culture techniques. All isolates were identified as Salmonella enteric serovar typhi using standard microbiological techniques. The results revealed that 162(54%} patients were positive for malaria parasites out of which 68(42%} had typhoid fever by Widal test and 9(5.6%} by stool culture test. A correlation analysis showed a strong relationship between malaria parasite and Salmonella typhi both by Widal test...

African Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2017

Background: Schistosomiasis, a chronic, debilitating and neglected tropical and subtropical water... more Background: Schistosomiasis, a chronic, debilitating and neglected tropical and subtropical water-borne ailment, is highly endemic in Nigeria, especially among primary school children in rural communities. The study on the variability of urine parameters in children infected with Schistosoma haematobium in Ukawu community, Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was undertaken. Materials and Methods: Urine samples were aseptically collected from 400 primary school children in the community and analysed using chemical reagent strips and sedimentation techniques. Results: The study revealed an overall prevalence of 27% as 108 pupils out of 400 were infected with S. haematobium in the area. Proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia were observed to occur in 67.0%, 79.0% and 74.9% respectively. Males had higher infections and higher occurrences of proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia (72.5%, 88.2% and 82.4% respectively). There was no significant difference with respect to sex (P<0.05). Children within ages 12-15 years had the highest prevalence of S. haematobium (35.5%) while those within the ages of 4-7 had the least prevalence (11.4%). The difference in the rate of infection between the different age groups was significant, statistically (P>0.05). Children within ages 12-15 had the highest occurrence of proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia while children within ages 4-7 had the least occurrence of the three urine parameters. All the pupils excreting above 40 egg/10ml of urine had proteinuria, haematuria and leucocyturia. Conclusion: The study revealed that the community studied is endemic with Schistosoma haematobium infections and the level of the urine parameters increased with the intensity of infection. Prompt case detection and treatment, good personal hygiene, eradication of snail hosts, public enlightenment and proper waste disposal are hereby recommended.

PLOS ONE, 2016

Background Infections are common complications in critically ill patients with associated signifi... more Background Infections are common complications in critically ill patients with associated significant morbidity and mortality. Aim This study determined the prevalence, risk factors, clinical outcome and microbiological profile of hospital-acquired infections in the intensive care unit of a Nigerian tertiary hospital.

Journal of Applied Life Sciences International, 2016

Aims: The investigation of faecal coliform contamination of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Loca... more Aims: The investigation of faecal coliform contamination of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria was undertaken. Study Design: This was a descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: Ebonyi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria from September, 2014 to October, 2014. Methodology: Samples from different water bodies in each of four communities in Ebonyi Local Government area were collected and analyzed using standard bacteriological methods for water analysis. Results: In the four communities, well water samples from Mbeke and Ndiagu communities showed high content of faecal coliform with 50%, and 90% respectively, while faecal coliform from stream water samples was recovered more from Ndiabor and Nkaleke communities with 55.6% and 50% occurrences respectively. The result of the percentage bacteriological analysis showed that the faecal coliform and Escherichia coli have 45% and 12% prevalence respectively in stream water samples, 0% prevalence each in borehole water samples and 12.5% prevalence each in pond water samples. Conclusion: The high presence of faecal coliform bacteria in these water bodies used for drinking, swimming and other domestic purposes is of public health significance considering the possibility of serving as vehicles for disease transmission. Effort should be geared towards educating the inhabitants of the study area on the need for proper disposal of refuse, treatment of sewage and the need to purify their water to make it fit for drinking and other purposes.

Journal of Applied & Environmental Microbiology, Jan 23, 2014

The health and environmental hazards associated with water body contamination by industrial efflu... more The health and environmental hazards associated with water body contamination by industrial effluents cannot be over emphasized. This study investigated the bacteriological and physicochemical qualities of effluents from Ebonyi Fertilizer and Chemical Plant and the impact on Azuiyiokwu Creek, located in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria between May, 2010 and March, 2011. Standard microbiological techniques were used for the isolation and identification of microbial isolates. The physicochemical parameters detected from all the samples investigated include pH, Ca, Cu, Pb, Ni, As, Al, Hg, Co, Zn, Fe, Cr, Na, P, Mg, and Mn. The study shows that the concentrations of the metals were constantly higher in fertilizer effluents, than Azuiyiokwu Creek and the control. There was a significant difference (P≤0.05) in concentration of metals between fertilizer effluents, Azuiyiokwu and the Control Creeks. The results also show that metallic contaminations of Azuiyiokwu Creek could be as a result of the infiltration of effluents from Ebonyi Fertilizer and Chemical Plant into Azuiyiokwu Creek. The study revealed higher bacterial load in the Ebonyi Fertilizer and Chemical plant effluents than Azuiyiokwu and Control Creeks. There was a significant difference (P≤ 0.05) in the microbial counts between the Control and Azuiyiokwu Creek. Bacteria genera encountered in this study include: Staphylococcus, Proteus, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Escherichia, Salmonella, Vibrio and Aeromonas. This shows that the effluents received by Azuiyiokwu creek have low bacteriological and physicochemical qualities and the range of microorganisms isolated in this study raise more serious concern about the public health implications. This reflects the possible pathetic condition of most water bodies in Nigeria. Therefore, adequate measures should be put in place to help ameliorate the deplorable state of our water bodies.

Journal of Advances in Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016

BMC Infectious Diseases, 2016

Background: Malaria remains a major cause of febrile illness in Nigeria and interventions to redu... more Background: Malaria remains a major cause of febrile illness in Nigeria and interventions to reduce malaria burden in Nigeria focus on the use of insecticide-treated nets. This study determined the prevalence of malaria parasitaemia and the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) for the control of malaria amongst under-five year old children in Calabar, Nigeria. Methods: A total of 270 under-5 year old children were recruited and structured questionnaires were used to obtain information on the background characteristics of the respondents from their caregivers. Capillary blood samples were collected from each of the patients through finger-pricking and tested for malaria parasites by Rapid Diagnostic Test and microscopy. Results: An overall parasitaemia prevalence of 32.2 % (by Rapid diagnostic test kit [RDT]) and 40.1 % (by microscopy) were obtained in this study. Forty-six (45.5 %) of the febrile patients had malaria parasitaemia (by RDT) or 41 (59.4 %) by microscopy. One hundred and fifty (55.6 %) of the caregivers acknowledged the use of nets on doors and windows for malaria prevention and control. One hundred and thirty-nine (51.5 %) mentioned sleeping under mosquito net while 138 (51.1 %) acknowledged the use of insecticide sprays. Although 191 (71.5 %) of the households possessed at least one mosquito net, only 25.4 % of the under-5 children slept under any net the night before the survey. No statistically significant reduction in malaria parasitaemia was observed with the use of mosquito nets among the under-5 children. Almost all the respondents (97.8 %) identified mosquito bite as the cause of malaria. Fever was identified by the majority of the respondents (92.2 %) as the most common symptom of malaria. Conclusions: The findings of the study showed high prevalence of parasitaemia and that fever was significantly associated with malaria parasitaemia. Mosquito net utilization among the under-fives was low despite high net ownership rate by households. Therefore, for effective control of malaria, public health education should focus on enlightening the caregivers on signs/symptoms of both uncomplicated and complicated malaria as well as encourage the use of ITNs especially among the under-fives.

British Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2016

British Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2015

Aims: This study investigated the synergistic antimicrobial activity of the extracts of Pleurotus... more Aims: This study investigated the synergistic antimicrobial activity of the extracts of Pleurotus species and Psychotria microphylla against five clinical bacterial isolates: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella Typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus from Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (FETHA), Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Study Design: This was an experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in the Department of Applied Microbiology Laboratory, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria between October, 2014 and December, 2014. Methodology: Antimicrobial components from the mushroom and herb were extracted with water and ethanol. In this, the antimicrobial activities were examined by agar well diffusion method adapted from Kirby Bauer disk diffusion technique against confirmed isolates of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella Typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Original Research Article Udu-ibiam et al.; BJPR, 7(1): 1-8, 2015; Article no.BJPR.2015.085 2 Mixtures of the different extracts (mushroom and herb) at varying ratios (of 1:1, 1:2, 2:1) were also used to determine their synergistic inhibitory effects at 37oC and 24 hours incubation. Inhibition zone diameters were measured and recorded. Results: The result revealed antibacterial activity of the extracts although at varying degrees. All the isolates (except Klebsiella pneumoniae) were sensitive to Psychotria microphylla. The highest sensitivity (7.0 mm) with ethanol extract of the herb was observed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, closely followed by Salmonella Typhi (5.0 mm) and then Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (4.0 mm each). Although the herb showed a wider range of antimicrobial activity against the tested isolates than the mushroom, Klebsiella pneumoniae was sensitive (6.0 mm). The herb-mushroom extract combination produced a better antimicrobial activity against the isolates with a very high sensitivity of 16.0 mm recorded against S. aureus as compared to the highest sensitivity (10.00 mm) produced by Ampiclox against S. Typhi. The activity of Pleurotus sp was independent of the extract (p-value=0.189), meaning that the difference in zones of inhibition in relation to extract types was not significant (p>0.05). P. microphylla activities was dependent on the type of extract (p-value=0.031). ); that is, the difference in zones of inhibition produced by P. microphylla in relation to extract types was significant (p<0.05). The most efficient ratio of synergy was the 1:2 ratios which involved one part of Pleurotus species and two parts of P. microphylla. Conclusion: The synergistic effect produced by Psychotria microphylla and Pleurotus species holds a good promise in the treatment of infections caused by tested bacteria and should be harnessed and patented.

American Journal of Life Sciences, 2014

The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among the... more The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among the newly admitted students of University of Jos, Jos Nigeria. A total of 300 newly admitted students were screened using rapid test (Global Rapid Diagnostic Kits USA) for the detection of HBsAg in serum samples from July 20 I0 to October 20 IO. The results obtained showed that 50(16.7%) were seropositive to HBsAg. The prevalence of HBsAg was higher in males 34(11.33%) compared to 16(5.33%) in females. Age specific prevalence was significantly higher in the age bracket 25-29, with 16(28.57%) and the lowest was found in the age bracket 15-19 years with 12(17.39%). The most important risk factors in the acquisition ofHBsAg as revealed in this study appear to be: Family History of hepatitis, 11 (36.6%), those with multiple sexual partners 4(13.79%), blood transfusion 3(13.64%), and tribal mark 3(13.04%). The prevalence of HBV recorded among newly admitted students in this study is probably a reflection of the situation in Nigerian Universities. Therefore, urgent preventive measures should be taken to set up campaign against transmission of HBV in University of 10s and the general population. To lower HBV prevalence, an adequate program of active screening and vaccination for students should be implemented, followed by a universal active immunization program.

International Journal of Scientific & Technology Research, 2014

The demand, high costs and health implications of using energy derived from hydrocarbon compound ... more The demand, high costs and health implications of using energy derived from hydrocarbon compound have necessitated the continuous search for alternative source of energy. Cow dung as a renewable source of energy supply has been proven to be very efficient. This study investigated the production of biogas using cow dung from Abakaliki abattoir located in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A 2ml/g of the cow dung was used in this study. The digestion was carried out in a 10 L anaerobic digester at a temperature of 25 0 C to 30 0 C and uncontrolled pH for a period of 3 weeks. About 23 cm 3 of biogas was produced on the 22 nd day. Thus biogas production from cow dung is a good and cheap alternative source of energy. The use of biogas will not only serve as a source of fuel but will also help in the management of waste. The biomass generated after digestion can be used both as animal feed and to improve soil fertility. It is therefore recommended that large scale production of biogas from...

African Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2016

Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one... more Lack of good drinking water due to contamination by chemicals has been a global menace. It is one of the most serious environmental problems that have greatly impacted human health. Basic quality parameters of domestic water sources in Ebonyi Local Government Area were studied in the months of September, 2014 and October, 2014. Samples were randomly collected from common water sources (well, stream, borehole, and pond) across four communities in the Local Government Area. The physicochemical characteristics of the collected water samples were investigated using standard procedures. The results showed mean pH values of 7.3, 7.8, 6.8 and 7.0 for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The colour examination showed: 13 HU, 11 HU, 13 HU, and 16 HU for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The turbidity were recorded as 103 NTU (well), 90 NTU (stream), 0.8 NTU (borehole) and 92 NTU (pond). Total dissolved solids (TDS) showed a record of 595 mg/L, 386mg/L, 76 mg/L, and 563 mg/L for well, stream, borehole and pond respectively. Well water recorded 78 mg/L, stream (112 mg/L), borehole (42 mg/L), and pond (795 mg/L) for Total Suspended Solids respectively. Also, the total hardness showed 525 mg/L, 779 mg/L, 44 mg/L, and 837 mg/L for well, stream, borehole and pond water samples respectively. The results show that most of the common sources of water in the studied areas are not good for drinking since the physicochemical variables evaluated mostly exceeded WHO permissible limits. We therefore recommend that water treatment should be paramount as alternative sources of drinking water in the communities should be considered.

Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause o... more Maternal morbidity and mortality has been associated with anaemia in pregnancy and is the cause of low birth weight in infants and other complications. The contribution of malaria infection to maternal anaemia in pregnancy has been well-documented in most other countries. This study, therefore, investigated the incidence of antenatal malaria parasitaemia and haemoglobin profile of pregnant women in Enugu East Local Government Area, Enugu, Nigeria. Seven hundred (700) capillary blood samples were collected from women that were made up of 210 primiparae, 390 multiparae and 100 non-pregnant (that served as the control group), and tested for presence of malaria parasites and haemoglobin profile using microscopy and a portable β-haemoglobin photometer (HamoCue, Hemo Cue AB, Angelholm, Sweden) respectively. The result showed that majority of the malaria positive participants were anaemic with haemoglobin (HB) below 11g/dl. There were more positive cases among primigravidae (first pregnancy) and there were also downward gradation in the intensity of malaria from primiparae to control group. Prevalence of malaria parasitaemia was found to be 55.56% at Annunciation hospital and 60.06% at Park lane hospital which was higher than prevalence of 22.00% and 16.00%% among non pregnant women used as control. The results showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the primigravidae, and multigravidae (more pregnancies). Women between the age ranges of 18 – 28 were most infected. The findings of this study have proven that primiparae have high susceptibility to malaria in endemic regions. Also, anaemia was associated with malaria in pregnancy. There is need to intensify effort in malaria prevention on pregnant women. Educational campaign is recommended at all levels to improve the awareness of malaria and preventive measures. Attack on malaria by provision of access to effective treatment and reduction of access with the vector is as well recommended.