Browsing by Author "Ayeh-Kumi, P.F."

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A comparative survey of the prevalence of human parasites found in fresh vegetables sold in supermarkets and open-aired markets in Accra, Ghana
(2014-11-25) Duedu, K.O.; Yarnie, E.A.; Tetteh-Quarcoo, P.B.; Attah, S.K.; Donkor, E.S.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.
Abstract Background Consuming raw vegetables offers essential nutrients that one may not get when such vegetables are usually cooked. However, eating them raw may pose a great risk for transmissions of pathogens. Such risks may be influenced by the sources of the vegetables and washing techniques used. The aim of the study was to compare the prevalence and diversity of parasitic pathogens associated with vegetables sold at the two types of markets in Ghana and compare effectiveness of various washing techniques. Methods We purchased two batches of samples of cabbage, sweet bell pepper, carrot, lettuce, tomato and onion within a two week interval. The vegetables were washed by three methods and the wash solution was concentrated and analyzed for parasites. Results The prevalent parasites detected were Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (43%) and Cryptosporidium parvum oocyst (16%). Others present were Hookworm ova, Entamoeba histolytica cysts, Giardia lamblia cysts, Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts, Entamoeba coli cysts, Trichuris trichiuria ova, Enterobius vermicularis ova, Isospora belli oocysts and Fasciolopsis buski ova. Contamination was highest in lettuce (61%) and cabbage and the least contaminated was tomato (18%). Contamination of vegetables sold at the open-aired markets was about ten-times that of the supermarkets. Conclusions In Ghana, the large open-aired markets are the most patronized and serve as a supply point for most corner shops and stalls. The results thus highlight the potential of fresh vegetables serving as a major source of food-borne disease outbreaks and the contribution of open-aired markets to their transmission. Urgent public education on handling of fresh vegetables is recommended.
A survey of pathogens associated with Cyperus esculentus L (tiger nuts) tubers sold in a Ghanaian city
(2014-06-06) Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Tetteh-Quarcoo, P.B.; Duedu, K.O.; Obeng, A.S.; Addo-Osafo, K.; Mortu, S.; Asmah, R.H.
Abstract Background Cyperus esculentus L, is a minor but important crop in Ghana. They are noted mostly by their aphrodisiac properties among others. The nuts are often eaten raw as an unprocessed snack due to its rich flavour and texture. Though eaten raw, the nuts are sometimes handled unhygienically, posing a public health threat. This study therefore aimed at determining the level and distribution of parasitic and bacterial contaminants associated with the crop as it is sold. Results Four types of intestinal parasites were identified, and the most prevalent was Cryptosporidium parvum (30.0%). Nuts contaminated with parasites were found only among street vendors. Bacteriological examination showed three different groups of bacterial isolates with the most prevalent being coliforms (54.2%). Unlike parasites, bacteria isolates were found among samples from both street vendors and market places. Multiple drug resistance was displayed by Proteus vulgaris. Conclusions Buying and eating nuts as well as other fruits taken raw from street vendors and market places could pose a significant public health threat. There is a need for efficient monitoring systems for food borne pathogens in Ghana.
Amebiasis: An update on diagnosis and treatment
(Infections in Medicine, 2006) Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Petri, W.A.
More than 50 million persons worldwide are believed to be infected with Entamoeba histolytica. Most victims (90%) remain asymptomatic, while an array of clinical syndromes ranging from diarrhea, dysentery, and colitis to abscesses of the liver, spleen, and brain develop in the remaining 10%. About 100,000 persons die each year as a consequence of amebic infestation. Among the issues that contribute to complicating the diagnosis and management of amebic infections are the varied clinical presentations, varied illness course in different communities, difficulties in diagnosis, and unavailability of medical resources in the developing world. An integrated diagnostic-therapeutic approach that distinguishes between E histolytica and Entamoeba dispar infections is warranted to help address these complexities and provide the best patient management.
Bacterial contamination of blood and blood components in three major blood transfusion centers, Accra, Ghana
(Japan Journal Infect Dis., 2009) Adiku, T.K.; Adjei, A.A.; Kuma, G.K.; Tettey, Y.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Opintan, J.; Apeagyei, F.; Ankrah, J.O.; Narter-Olaga, E.G.
Reports from studies conducted in several countries indicate a high incidence of bacterial contamination of donor blood. The prevalence of bacterial contamination of blood and its products in Ghana is not known. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of bacterial contamination of blood and its products at the three major blood transfusion centers in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Stored whole blood and its products were cultured on different media, and isolates were identified using standard biochemical and bacteriological methods. The susceptibility of the isolates to selected antimicrobial agents was also determined by the disc diffusion method. The overall prevalence rate was 9% (28/303; whole blood, 13% [24/192]; plasma, 3% [2/79]; platelet, 9% [2/22]). The Gram-positive bacteria isolated were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, S. aureus, and Bacillus spp., and the Gram-negative organisms were Yersinia enterocolitica, Citrobacter freundii, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The Gram-positive bacteria were sensitive to cloxacillin, erythromycin, tetracycline, and gentamicin but resistant to penicillin, ampicillin, cefuroxime, and cotrimoxazole, while the Gram-negative bacteria were sensitive to amikacin and gentamicin but resistant to chloramphenicol, tetracycline, ampicillin, cefuroxime, cefotaxime (except Y. enterocolitica), and cotrimoxazole. Our results suggest that bacterial contamination of blood and its products is prevalent in Ghana.
A comparative survey of the prevalence of human parasites found in fresh vegetables sold in supermarkets and open-aired markets in Accra, Ghana
(BMC Research Notes, 2014-11) Duedu, K.O.; Yarnie, E.A.; Tetteh-Quarcoo, P.B.; Attah, S.K.; Donkor, E.S.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.
Background: Consuming raw vegetables offers essential nutrients that one may not get when such vegetables are usually cooked. However, eating them raw may pose a great risk for transmissions of pathogens. Such risks may be influenced by the sources of the vegetables and washing techniques used. The aim of the study was to compare the prevalence and diversity of parasitic pathogens associated with vegetables sold at the two types of markets in Ghana and compare effectiveness of various washing techniques. Methods: We purchased two batches of samples of cabbage, sweet bell pepper, carrot, lettuce, tomato and onion within a two week interval. The vegetables were washed by three methods and the wash solution was concentrated and analyzed for parasites. Results: The prevalent parasites detected were Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (43%) and Cryptosporidium parvum oocyst (16%). Others present were Hookworm ova, Entamoeba histolytica cysts, Giardia lamblia cysts, Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts, Entamoeba coli cysts, Trichuris trichiuria ova, Enterobius vermicularis ova, Isospora belli oocysts and Fasciolopsis buski ova. Contamination was highest in lettuce (61%) and cabbage and the least contaminated was tomato (18%). Contamination of vegetables sold at the open-aired markets was about ten-times that of the supermarkets. Conclusions: In Ghana, the large open-aired markets are the most patronized and serve as a supply point for most corner shops and stalls. The results thus highlight the potential of fresh vegetables serving as a major source of food-borne disease outbreaks and the contribution of open-aired markets to their transmission. Urgent public education on handling of fresh vegetables is recommended. © 2014 Duedu et al.
Comparing sensitivity of two procedures for the detection and identification of intestinal protozoa from school specimens
(Ghana Journal of Allied Health Sciences, 2009) Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Gariba, G.A.; Domeh, J.K.; Anim Baidoo, I.; Adjei, D.N.
Cytological and Wet Mount Microscopic Observations Made in Urine of Schistosoma haematobium-Infected Children: Hint of the Implication in Bladder Cancer
(Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology, 2019-09-02) Tetteh-Quarcoo, P.B.; Akuetteh, B.K.; Owusu, I.A.; Quayson, S.E; Attah, S.K.; Armah, R.; Afutu, E.; Afrah, A.; Addo-Osafo, K.; Smith, C.; Gyasi, R.K.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.
Background. Schistosomiasis is the second major human parasitic disease next to malaria, in terms of socioeconomic and public health consequences, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Schistosoma haematobium (S. haematobium) is a trematode and one of the species of Schistosoma that cause urogenital schistosomiasis (urinary schistosomiasis). Although the knowledge of this disease has improved over the years, there are still endemic areas, with most of the reported cases in Africa, including Ghana. Not much has been done in Ghana to investigate cytological abnormalities in individuals within endemic communities, although there are epidemiologic evidences linking S. haematobium infection with carcinoma of the bladder. Aim. +e aim of this study was to identify microscopic and cytological abnormalities in the urine deposits of S. haematobium-infected children. Methodology. +ree hundred and sixty-seven (367) urine samples were collected from school children in Zenu and Weija communities. All the samples were examined microscopically for the presence of S. haematobium eggs, after which the infected samples and controls were processed for cytological investigation. Results. S. haematobium ova were present in 66 (18.0%) out of the 367 urine samples. Inflammatory cells (82%, 54/66), hyperkeratosis (47%, 31/66), and squamous cell metaplasia (24%, 16/66) were the main observations made during the cytological examination of the S. haematobium-infected urine samples. Conclusion. Cytological abnormalities in S. haematobium-infected children may play an important role in the severity of the disease, leading to the possible development of bladder cancer in later years, if early attention is not given. +erefore, routine cytological screening for urogenital schistosomiasis patients (especially children) at hospitals in S. haematobium-endemic locations is recommended.
Cytological and Wet Mount Microscopic Observations Made in Urine of Schistosoma haematobium-Infected Children: Hint of the Implication in Bladder Cancer
(Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology, 2019-09-02) Tetteh-Quarcoo, P.B.; Akuetteh, B.K.; Owusu, i.A.; Quayson, S.E.; Attah, S.K.; Armah, R.; Afutu, E.; Afrah, A.; Addo-Osafo, K.; Smith, C.; Gyasi, R.K.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.
Background. Schistosomiasis is the second major human parasitic disease next to malaria, in terms of socioeconomic and public health consequences, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Schistosoma haematobium (S. haematobium) is a trematode and one of the species of Schistosoma that cause urogenital schistosomiasis (urinary schistosomiasis). Although the knowledge of this disease has improved over the years, there are still endemic areas, with most of the reported cases in Africa, including Ghana. Not much has been done in Ghana to investigate cytological abnormalities in individuals within endemic communities, although there are epidemiologic evidences linking S. haematobium infection with carcinoma of the bladder. Aim. +e aim of this study was to identify microscopic and cytological abnormalities in the urine deposits of S. haematobium-infected children. Methodology. +ree hundred and sixty-seven (367) urine samples were collected from school children in Zenu and Weija communities. All the samples were examined microscopically for the presence of S. haematobium eggs, after which the infected samples and controls were processed for cytological investigation. Results. S. haematobium ova were present in 66 (18.0%) out of the 367 urine samples. Inflammatory cells (82%, 54/66), hyperkeratosis (47%, 31/66), and squamous cell metaplasia (24%, 16/66) were the main observations made during the cytological examination of the S. haematobium-infected urine samples. Conclusion. Cytological abnormalities in S. haematobium-infected children may play an important role in the severity of the disease, leading to the possible development of bladder cancer in later years, if early attention is not given. +erefore, routine cytological screening for urogenital schistosomiasis patients (especially children) at hospitals in S. haematobium-endemic locations is recommended.
Determination of single nucleotide polymorphism in the pfcrt, dhps, dhfr and pfmdr1 genes of plasmodium falciparum using PCR and SSSOP=ELIZA assay based technologies. The third annual scientific conference
(College of Health Sciences, 2009) Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Matrevi, S.A.; Koram, K.A.; Brown, C.A.
The effects of co-infection with human parvovirus B19 and plasmodium falciparum on type and degree of anaemia in Ghanaian children
(Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 2013) Duedu, K.O.; Sagoe, K.W.C.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Affrim, R.B.; Adiku, T.
Objective To determin the extent to which parvovirus B19 (B19V) and co-infection of B19V and malaria contribute to risk of anaemia in children. Methods B19V DNA and malaria parasites were screened for 234 children at the PML Children's Hospital in Accra. The role of B19V and co-infection with B19V and malaria in anaemia was evaluated by analysing full blood cell counts, malaria and B19V DNA results from these children. Results The prevalence of B19V, malaria and co-infection with B19V and malaria was 4.7%, 41.9% and 2.6%, respectively. Malaria posed a greater risk in the development of mild anaemia compared to severe anaemia (OR=5.28 vrs 3.15) whereas B19V posed a higher risk in the development of severe anaemia compared to mild anaemia (OR=4.07 vrs 1.00) from a non-anaemic child. Persons with co-infection with B19V and malaria had 2.23 times the risk (95% CI=0.40-12.54) of developing severe anaemia should they already have a mild anaemia. The degree of anaemia was about three times affected by co-infection (Pillai's trace=0.551, P=0.001) as was affected by malaria alone (Pillai's trace=0.185, P=0.001). B19V alone did not significantly affect the development of anaemia in a non-anaemic child. Microcytic anaemia was associated with B19V and co-infection with B19V and malaria more than normocytic normochromic anaemia. Conclusions B19V was associated with malaria in cases of severe anaemia. The association posed a significant risk for exacerbation of anaemia in mild anaemic children. B19V and co-infection with B19V and malaria may be associated with microcytic anaemia rather than normocytic normochromic anaemia as seen in cases of B19V infection among persons with red cell abnormalities.
Entamoeba moshkovskii infections in children in Bangladesh
(Emerging Infectious Diseases, 2003-06) Ali, I.K.M.; Hossain, M.B.; Roy, S.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Petri, Jr. W.A.; Haque, R.; Clark, C.G.
Entamoeba moshkovskii cysts are morphologically indistinguishable from those of the disease-causing species E. histolytica and the nonpathogenic E. dispar. Although sporadic cases of human infection with E. moshkovskii have been reported, the organism is considered primarily a free-living amoeba. No simple molecular detection tool is available for diagnosing E. moshkovskii infections. We used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect E. moshkovskii directly in stool. We tested 109 stool specimens from preschool children in Bangladesh by PCR; 17 were positive for E. histolytica (15.6%) and 39 were positive for E. dispar (35.8%). In addition, we found that 23 (21.1%) were positive for E. moshkovskii infection, and 17 (73.9%) of these also carried E. histolytica or E. dispar. The high association of E. moshkovskii with E. histolytica and E. dispar may have obscured its identification in previous studies. The high prevalence found in this study suggests that humans may be a true host for this amoeba.
Epidemiology and Molecular Characterization of Giardia Lamblia and Cryptosporidium Sp. Infections among Children In Accra, Ghana
(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Anim-Baidoo, I.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Gyan, B.; Adjei, A.A.
Giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis remain as part of the commonest gastroenteritis in Ghana. The diseases are caused by the protozoan parasites, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium sp. respectively. Inadequate supply of treated water and poor sanitation are some of the key factors leading to the spread of these infections. Being zoonotic diseases, it is suspected that, a large proportion of human infections could come from infected domestic and farm animals. Though, use of molecular tools has helped to understand how the diseases spread in humans, animals, and the environment, very little information is available on the epidemiology and transmission routes of G. lamblia and Cryptosporidium sp. in Ghana, and a genetic characterization of the parasite has also not been thoroughly investigated. Information on clinical manifestations of Giardia infections and co-infections with other diarrhoeal causing agents particularly rotavirus remain scanty. In the present study, the epidemiology and molecular characterization of the two parasitic infections were investigated. The study, a prospective cross-sectional hospital and community-based, was conducted in Accra, Ghana. A total of 485 patients comprising of 365 diarrhoeic and 120 non-diarrhoeic children of age ≤ 5 years, were studied. Stool samples were tested microscopically, and by enzyme immunoassay kits. Positive samples were tested by the semi- nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequently characterized into genotypes by PCR-RFLP, and nucleotide sequence analysis. Demographic and clinical data were obtained by a structured questionnaire. In the hospital-based study, prevalence rates of 5.8% and 22.0% were observed for G. lamblia and Cryptosporidium sp. infections respectively, and prevalence in diarrhoeic children was significantly higher than non-diarrhoeic children (P< 0.0001). Infection in day care centres was 10.1% for G. lamblia and 4.2% for Cryptosporidium. Neither gender nor breastfeeding habits, education level of mother, presence of domestic animals, source of children’s food, seasons (dry or rainy) was a risk factor for infections of the two parasites. However, age and source of drinking water were identified as associated risk factors for infection. G. lamblia genotype B and Cryptosporidium parvum were identified in the genotyping study. Although severity of rotaviral diarrhoea was reduced by Giardia co-infection, the results cannot be conclusive. Although both parasites were present in the studied population, cryptosporidial diarrhoea appears to be more common than giardial diarrhoea. The presence of infections among non-diarrhoeal children is of much concern, as they can spread infections unknowingly. The presence of genotype B as the only prevailing genotype of G. lamblia indicates that infections from animals will be uncommon, but Cryptosporidium parvum transmission could be either anthroponotic or zoonotic. The co- infection study had a limitatio n, and therefore demands further investigation. Several Cryptosporidium isolates that were successfully sequenced but whose identity were not clear, need further investigation as they could be new species emerging.
First isolation of a new species of Leishmania responsible for human cutaneous leishmaniasis in Ghana and classification in the Leishmania enriettii complex
(International Journal for Parasitology, 2015-09) Kwakye-Nuako, G.; Mosore, M.-T.; Duplessis, C.; Bates, M.D.; Puplampu, N.; Mensah-Attipoe, I.; Desewu, K.; Afegbe, G.; Asmah, R.H.; Jamjoom, M.B.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Boakye, D.A.; Bates, P.A.
An active case detection approach with PCR diagnosis was used in the Ho District of the Volta Region, Ghana that identified individuals with active cutaneous leishmaniasis. Three isolates were successfully cultured and DNA sequences from these were analysed (ribosomal RNA internal transcribed spacer 1; ribosomal protein L23a intergenic spacer; RNA polymerase II large subunit), showing them to be Leishmania, identical to each other but different from all other known Leishmania spp. Phylogenetic analysis showed the parasites to be new members of the Leishmania enriettii complex, which is emerging as a possible new subgenus of Leishmania parasites containing human pathogens. © 2015 The Authors.
Gastrointestinal Parasites in Ruminants at Selected Abattoirs in the Greater Accra Region, Ghana
(University of Ghana, 2013-03) Bannerman-Williams, E.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Attah, S.K.
The main source of animal protein is livestock and their products. Livestock plays a crucial role in the economy of most nations. Parasitism is one of the main constraints limiting livestock productions. Control of parasitic diseases communicable from animals to men under natural conditions is very necessary to improve the health status of Ghanaians. The research was aimed at determining different parasites and compares the prevalence of infections at certified and uncertified abattoirs and quantifies them. Macroscopic and microscopic examinations were done on the parasites identified to confirm structures of the various parasites. Wet mount preparation was done to identify some of the cyst of the parasites. The parasites found at the Tema abattoir were tapeworms, rumen flukes and hydatid cysts. Those found at the Amasaman slaughter house were hookworms, tapeworms, and rumen flukes. The percentage of infection at Tema abattoir was 71.7% in cattle, 82.2% in goats and 53.3% in sheep. On the other hand, the percentage of animals infected at Amasaman slaughter house were 67.1% for cattle, 67.5% for goat and 66.7% for sheep. The results of this study could be due to the fact that most of the goats used were from lowland and mid altitude areas which are thought to be suitable for survival of larval stage of the parasites. Another reason could be due to the fact that, there is poor veterinary infrastructure and medication to goats. Most of the animals examined during the study had high number of tapeworms infestations, followed by rumen flukes. There is a need to do this study throughout the year so as to get a complete picture which will cover the gastrointestinal parasites in both the wet season and dry season to enable veterinarians control the parasites.
Hepatitis E virus infection among pig handlers in Accra, Ghana
(2009) Adjei, A.A.; Aviyase, J.T.; Tettey, Y.; Adu-Gyamfi, C.; Mingle, J.A.A.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Gyasi, R.K.
Objective: To determine the correlates of hepatitis E virus infection (HEV) in a sample of persons who work with pigs. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Three pig farms in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Subjects: Persons who work with pigs seen at the selected pig farms between the months of January and May 2008. Results: One hundred and five persons who work with pigs voluntarily completed a risk-factor questionnaire and provided blood samples for unlinked anonymous testing for the presence of antibodies to HEV. The median age of participants was 36.5 ± 15.0 years (range 12-65 years). Of the 105 subjects tested, HEV seroprevelance was 38.1%. On multivariate analysis, the independent determinants of HEV infection were being employed on the farm for less than six months (odds ratio (OR) 9.1; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.0-81.4 and having piped water in the household and/or on the farm (OR 3.9; 95% CI 0.4-90.8). Conclusion: Consistent with similar studies worldwide, the results of our studies revealed a high prevalence of HEV infection in persons who work with pigs. Further studies need to be done to isolate, characterise the virus and define the clinical and epidemiological significance of HEV infection in this population.
Hepatitis E virus infection is highly prevalent among pregnant women in Accra, Ghana
(2009-07-20) Adjei, A.A.; Tettey, Y.; Aviyase, J.T.; Adu-Gyamfi, C.; Obed, S.; Mingle, J.A.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Adiku, T.K.
Abstract Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is highly endemic in several African countries with high mortality rate among pregnant women. The prevalence of antibodies to HEV in Ghana is not known. Therefore we evaluated the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG and anti-HEV IgM among pregnant women seen between the months of January and May, 2008 at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana. Results One hundred and fifty-seven women provided blood samples for unlinked anonymous testing for the presence of antibodies to HEV. The median age of participants was 28.89 ± 5.76 years (range 13–42 years). Of the 157 women tested, HEV seroprevelance was 28.66% (45/157). Among the seropositive women, 64.40% (29/45) tested positive for anti-HEV IgM while 35.60% (16/45) tested positive to HEV IgG antibodies. HEV seroprevalence was highest (46.15%) among women 21–25 years of age, followed by 42.82% in = 20 year group, then 36.84% in = 36 year group. Of the 157 women, 75.79% and 22.92% were in their third and second trimesters of pregnancy, respectively. Anti-HEV antibodies detected in women in their third trimester of pregnancy (30.25%) was significantly higher, P < 0.05, than in women in their second trimester of pregnancy (25.0%). Conclusion Consistent with similar studies worldwide, the results of our studies revealed a high prevalence of HEV infection in pregnant women.
Hepatitis E virus infection is highly prevalent among pregnant women in Accra, Ghana.
(2009-07-20) Adjei, A.A.; Tettey, Y.; Aviyase, J.T.; Adu-Gyamfi, C.; Obed, S.; Mingle, J.A.A.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Adiku, T.K.
Abstract Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is highly endemic in several African countries with high mortality rate among pregnant women. The prevalence of antibodies to HEV in Ghana is not known. Therefore we evaluated the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG and anti-HEV IgM among pregnant women seen between the months of January and May, 2008 at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana. Results One hundred and fifty-seven women provided blood samples for unlinked anonymous testing for the presence of antibodies to HEV. The median age of participants was 28.89 ± 5.76 years (range 13–42 years). Of the 157 women tested, HEV seroprevelance was 28.66% (45/157). Among the seropositive women, 64.40% (29/45) tested positive for anti-HEV IgM while 35.60% (16/45) tested positive to HEV IgG antibodies. HEV seroprevalence was highest (46.15%) among women 21–25 years of age, followed by 42.82% in = 20 year group, then 36.84% in = 36 year group. Of the 157 women, 75.79% and 22.92% were in their third and second trimesters of pregnancy, respectively. Anti-HEV antibodies detected in women in their third trimester of pregnancy (30.25%) was significantly higher, P < 0.05, than in women in their second trimester of pregnancy (25.0%). Conclusion Consistent with similar studies worldwide, the results of our studies revealed a high prevalence of HEV infection in pregnant women.
High levels of urinary schistosomiasis among children in Bunuso, a rural community in Ghana: an urgent call for increased surveillance and control programs
(Journal of parasitic diseases, 2013-12) Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Obeng-Nkrumah, N.; Baidoo, D.; Teye, J.; Asmah, R.H.
We investigated the occurrence of urinary schistosomiasis and estimated predictors for risk of infection among children in the Bunuso community of Ashanti Region of Ghana, West Africa. The cross-sectional survey was conducted between June and December 2009. Information was obtained on socio-demographic characteristics, schistosomiasis symptoms and other risk factors through interviews and questionnaires. Urine samples were analysed for Schistosoma haematobium ova using centrifugation and sedimentation, filtration and microscopy. Bivariate estimations and multiple logistic regression modelling with odds ratios (OR) were used to assess risk factors for S. haematobium infections. Inspections at River Nanakwaw revealed snail vectors, Bulinus truncatus. Overall, 95 out of 100 (95 % confidence interval [CI] 88.8–97.6) children tested positive for S. haematobium infection. The mean ova density (eggs/10 ml of urine) of infections was 58.12 (95 % CI 31.3–71.6) and varied significantly between age-group distributions (P value = 0.001; Post Hoc, P > 0.05 for ≤8 vs 15–17 years, and 9–11 vs 12–14 years), sources of house-hold water (P value = 0.019; Post Hoc, P < 0.05 for Borehole vs River Nanakwaw), children activities in River Nanakwaw (P value = 0.001), and haematuria (P value = 0.007). Independent variables significantly associated with S. haematobium infections were the use of River Nanakwaw as source of household water (OR 12.54; 95 % CI 3.932–42.12, P value = 0.003), engaging activities in River Nanakwaw (OR 8.76; 95 % CI 1.759–31.871; P value = 0.008) and haematuria (OR 36.71; 95 % CI 10.18–48.47; P value = 0.001). The passage of blood urine was prognostic of urinary schistosomiasis with a positive predictive value of 97.5 %. Our results demonstrate the endemicity of urinary schistosomiasis in Bunuso. Schistosomiasis remains a disease of great public health importance in Ghana, and there is the urgent need to intensify surveillance and control programs in remote riparian communities.
Human T-lymphotropic type-1 virus specific antibody detected in sera of HIV/AIDS patients in Ghana.
(Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2003) Adjei, A.A.; Adiku, T.K.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.; Domfeh, A.B.
Serum samples from 124 acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) hospitalized patients at the Fevers Unit, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana, were examined by the particle agglutination test for antibodies to human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) core proteins. The subjects included 84 males and 40 females, aged 16 to 54 years. Specific antibodies were detected in only 14 out of the 124 sera samples, giving an overall prevalence rate of 11.29%. The incidence was lower in males (5.95%; 5/84) than in females (22.50%; 9/40) (P<0.05). In both sexes, the age distribution of subjects positive for HTLV-1 antibodies ranged from 35 to 54 years. The prevalence rate reported herein is too low to suggest an association of HTLV-1 with AIDS, though it may indicate an opportunistic infection of AIDS patients by HTLV-1. Whether HTLV-1 is an underlying disease association or whether HTLV-1 plays some auxiliary role in the acquisition and progression of AIDS remains to be determined.
Intestinal parasitic infections and risk factors: A cross-sectional survey of some school children in a suburb in Accra, Ghana
(BioMed Central Ltd., 2015) Forson, A.O.; Arthur, I.; Olu-Taiwo, M.; Glover, K.K.; Pappoe-Ashong, P.J.; Ayeh-Kumi, P.F.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and establish some risk factors associated with the acquisition of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in school children in Accra, Ghana. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 15%. Giardia lamblia (10%) and Schistosoma mansoni (1.7%) were the common parasites found. Out of the 15% students postive for intestinal parasites, 13.6% had single parasites and 1.3% had double parasitic infections. Children between the ages of 4-5 and 6-7 years (20% each) had the most parasitic infections. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was not significantly related to gender (p = 0.1451), and source of drinking water (p = 0.8832). However, a statistically significant association between children infected with parasites and close proximity to domestic animals or pets was observed (p = 0.0284). Continuous education on personal hygiene, environmental sanitation and deworming of domestic animals or pets are required to reduce the prevalence of intestinal parasites in school children in Accra.