# 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.

## Key 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