P-1816. Malaria and West-Nile Virus Co-infection amongst Febrile Patients attending a Tertiary Hospital in Abuja, Nigeria

TL;DR

This study found a high prevalence of West Nile virus antibodies in febrile patients in Abuja, Nigeria, highlighting the need for surveillance and monitoring.

Contribution

The study reports a significant prevalence of WNV IgM antibodies in a non-endemic area and identifies mosquito repellent use as a risk factor.

Findings

66.1% of febrile participants tested positive for anti-WNV IgM antibodies.

Use of mosquito repellents was significantly associated with WNV IgM seropositivity (p = 0.016).

The study emphasizes the need for routine WNV surveillance and monitoring of infected patients.

Abstract

West Nile virus (WNV) has ubiquitous distribution in Africa. Over the years, the geographical range of WNV activity has increased and the virus has become established even in non-endemic areas where it has not been previously detected.

This serological-survey investigated the prevalence of anti-WNV IgM among patients with febrile illnesses at Gwagwalada metropolis, Abuja. Between the period of May and August 2016, a total of 171 patients attending the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital were recruited for the study. Serum samples were immediately harvested, stored and analyzed using the indirect ELISA for anti-WNV IgM antibodies using kits endorsed by the World Health Organization. Socio-demographic variables and clinical data was gotten using a self-administered interviewer-based questionnaires.

Out of the 171 febrile participants, the overall prevalence of WNV IgM antibodies was 66.1%. With regards to participants preventive measures against WNV and associated risk factors, significant association was observed between WNV IgM seropositivity and the use of mosquito repellents (p =0.016).

Out of the 171 febrile participants, the overall prevalence of WNV IgM antibodies was 66.1%. With regards to participants preventive measures against WNV and associated risk factors, significant association was observed between WNV IgM seropositivity and the use of mosquito repellents (p =0.016). Findings from this study necessitate the need for routine surveillance of WNV. More so, infected patients should be closely monitored in order to detect possible associated sequelae.

All Authors: No reported disclosures

Figures