Impact of HIV status on Hookworm infection prevalence and intensity in Plateau state Nigeria

Azi, Hezekiah Yusuf; Inabo, Helen; Olonitola, Stephen

doi:10.21608/mid.2025.320359.2209

Impact of HIV status on Hookworm infection prevalence and intensity in Plateau state Nigeria

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of Microbiology Faculty of Natural Sciences University of Jos, Nigeria

² Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria

10.21608/mid.2025.320359.2209

Abstract

Background: Infection with hookworms is the second most common human helminth infection (after Ascariasis) and remain a major public health problem in several low and middle-income countries mostly in areas with moist, warm climates. Infection with HIV results in weakened immunity leading to the acquisition of several opportunistic and non-opportunistic pathogens exacerbating the illness. Studies of African adults living with HIV have shown helminth co-infection rates that range from 10% to upwards of 45%. Aim: This study was conducted to determine the impact of HIV status on hookworm infection prevalence and intensity in Plateau state Nigeria. Methods: A total of 526 individuals were recruited for the study. Stool samples were analyzed for hookworm eggs using wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques while infection intensity was determined using Kato-katz method. Results: Overall prevalence of hookworm infection was 34 (6.46%) with HIV-positive accounting for 11 (3.62%) while non-HIV-positive patients accounted for 23 (10.36%). Concerning socio-demographic characteristics, the age group with highest prevalence was 10-19 years (18.52%). In terms of sex, prevalence was higher in males (9.94%) than females (4.64%). A statistically significant association exists between sex and hookworm infection at P ≤0.05. Out of 34 hookworm-positive samples, 16(47.06%) had light infection intensity, 8 (23.53%) had moderate infection intensity and 10 (29.41%) had heavy infection intensity. Conclusion: Given the paucity of data on hookworm infection among HIV patients in Plateau state, Nigeria, this study has provided baseline information that will guide the management and treatment of HIV and hookworm co-infected patients.

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