Seroprevalence of SARS-COV-2 Exposure among “High-Risk” Populations (Healthcare Workers, People Who Attend Markets, and School Children) in Zanzibar

In Zanzibar, from the start of the pandemic in March 2020 to the time of sampling in December 2020, SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence data was limited. We conducted a seroprevalence study to evaluate the magnitude of SARS-CoV-2 exposure among healthcare workers, school children, and people who attended general markets in Zanzibar. The objectives of the study were to analyse the total antibodies from selected higher-risk population groups in order to determine magnitude in SARS CoV-2 exposure. Blood samples were collected from eligible and consented participants (adults and children), and their serum was analyzed for total antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 using ELISA. A questionnaire was used to collect participants’ demographic and clinical data. The overall SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence across all age groups was 33%, and a higher seroprevalence was observed in the 40 - 49 years’ age group relative to other ages as well as in those who attended markets. A runny nose (18.8% of participants) was the most frequently reported SARS-CoV-2 infection-related symptom. Multivariable analysis showed significantly higher odds of infection in people living in urban districts. The findings provide insight into SARS-CoV-2 infection among school children, health workers, and people who attended markets in Zanzibar in the early stages of the pandemic. Exposure in these groups might have been influenced by infection and prevention strategies taken by the government, as well as shopping behavior, school overcrowding, and population density in urban settings. The study had methodological limitations, including cross-sectional design. Further, well-designed, longitudinal studies are recommended to understand exposure and transmission at a population level.

SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Seroprevalence in Children and Workers from Belgian French-Speaking Primary Schools

Purpose: During the COVID-19 pandemic, closing schools was discussed to limit the virus transmission, despite a lack of evidence on the role of young children in the virus spread. We undertook a study among Belgian primary schools to assess the SARS-CoV-2 antibody seroprevalence and its relationship with local incidence, school size, and socioeconomic status (SES). Methods: Schools were purposively selected using three criteria: an area with either a low or a high COVID-19 incidence, either a small or a large size, and either a low or a high SES. 932 (/2488, 38%) children and 242 (/444, 55%) staff signed informed consent. COVID-19 antibodies were tested using rapid finger prick tests. Results: Children participation was positively correlated with staff (r = +0.33;95% CI [−0.34;0.78]), and strongly with SES (r = +0.81;95% CI [0.40;0.95]). Seroprevalence was 21% in children (191/922) and 25% in staff (61/240). Seroprevalence did not correlate with local cumulative incidence (children: r = +0.06;95% CI [−0.59;0.67];staff: r = +0.26;95% CI [−0.40;0.74]). In staff, seroprevalence was higher in schools with higher SES (r = +0.37;95% CI [−0.29;0.79]), but not in children (r = −0.10;95% CI [−0.66;0.53]). Conclusion:The lower seroprevalence in children suggests they are lower transmitters than adults, but poor socioeconomic levels were less representative.

Seroprevalence, Importance of Rapid Testing and Factors Associated with HBsAg Carriage in Pregnancy in Three Referral Maternity Hospitals in Mono (Benin), in 2020

Introduction Difficulties in accessing the screening test for viral hepatitis B in maternity wards could be a factor in underestimating the prevalence of anti-HBV antibodies. The rapid diagnostic orientation test (RDOT) could improve seroprevalence and obstetrical prognosis. The aim of this study was to use the rapid diagnostic orientation test (RDOT) to determine the seroprevalence of HBs antigen carriage in pregnant women while highlighting the associated factors. Methods This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study that took place from October to December 2020 (three months) in three (03) reference maternities in western Benin (Mono). Consenting pregnant women received in prenatal consultation had been screened by RDOT. Positive cases were confirmed by ELISA test. The follow-up of these cases made it possible to establish the obstetrical prognosis. Results Of 201 women studied, 11 (5.5%) were positive for RDOT HBV and confirmed by the ELISA test. The factors associated with HBsAg carriage during pregnancy were multiple sexual partnerships (p = 0.01), female circumcision (p = 0.0001), and ignorance of prior HBV serological status (p = 0.0001). No influence of hepatitis B on pregnancy was noted. Conclusion The seroprevalence of hepatitis B in pregnancy was intermediate in the reference maternities of western Benin. The associated factors were multiple sexual partnerships, female circumcision and unawareness of prior HBV status. Free RDOT in maternity wards would improve early detection and management of viral hepatitis B in pregnancy.

Seroprevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection in Women of Procreate Age in the Mayo-Boneye Department in Chad

Introduction: Chlamydia trachomatis infections constitute a major public health problem, particularly in women. The objective of this study is to identify Chlamydia trachomatis to improve the health of women in the Department of Mayo-Boneye. Methodology: This is a prospective observational study that took place from October to December 2021, including 168 patients with their sociodemographic characteristics. The venous blood of the patients was collected in dry tubes and centrifuged to obtain the serum. The Chlamydia IgG Rapid Test Cassette was used for the detection of antibodies to Chlamydia infection. The Epi Info 7TM software was used to perform the statistical analyses. Results: A total of 168 patients were included in this study. The average age was 26.36 ± 9.21 years, the median was 25.5 years with the extremes of 14 years and 70 years. Among these patients, 46.43% were illiterate, 5.95% and 20.83% were primary and secondary school students, respectively, and 26.79% university students. For marital status, 66.67% were single, 16.67% married, 10.71% divorced and 5.95% widowed. Regarding the profession, 26.79% were traders, 8.93% were employees and 64.29% unemployed. In this study, the 168 patients had performed Chlamydia trachomatis serology among whom 02 (1.19%) were excluded for invalid results and 10.71% presented positive cases. The city of Bongor was the most infected with 61% of cases. Among these patients, 54.22% were linked to risk factors for Chlamydia trachomatis. The most infected age group was between 25 and 35 with a seroprevalence of 5.36% of cases. Conclusion: In this study, Chlamydia trachomatis was positive for 10.71% of diagnosed cases. The most affected age groups are young, sexually active women. The State should emphasize the screening of women, the awareness of students and academics.

Seroprevalence of Bartonella henselae and Identification of Risk Factors in China

Serum samples were tested for Bartonella henselae Ig G antibodies using indirect immunofluorescence assays.We then analyzed associated risk factors.Serum samples were considered positive when reactive at a dilution of more than 1:320.

Toxoplasmosis among pregnant women:High seroprevalence and risk factors in Kinshasa,Democratic Republic of Congo

Objective:To determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women,as well as the proportion of acutely infected and risk factors in the Democratic Republic of Congo.Methods:Thirty maternities in Kinshasa were randomly selected and women attending antenatal consultation were invited to participate.They were interviewed with a structured questionnaire about known risk factors(age,meat consumption,contact with soil,and presence of cat)and a venous blood sample was taken.Sera were analysed for total immunoglobulins(Ig)by VIDAS Toxo Competition using Enzyme Linked Fluorescent Assay.IgM was determined by VIDIA Toxo IgM and IgG avidity by VIDAS Toxo IgG avidity.Results:A total of 781 women were included.Median age was 28 years old(IQR:8.S).And 627women(80.3%;95%CI:77.5-83.1)were found to be positive to total Ig and 17 out of 387(4.4%;95%CI:2.3-6.4)were positive to IgM.IgC avidity was low for 2(11.8%)women,intermediate for 2(11.8%)and high for 13 women(76.4%).There was no statistically significant association between Toxoplasma gondii infection and any risk factors assessed.Conclusion:In Kinshasa,toxoplasmosis endemicity is highly prevalent.One woman out of twenty five had a recent toxoplasmosis infection and 20%were not protected against primoinfection,indicating a need for measures to prevent and control toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.

Seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen in pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Honiara Solomon Islands,2015

AIM To determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen(HBsAg) among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in Honiara, Solomon Islands. METHODS This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in seven area health centers in Honiara. From March to June 2015, identification of eligible pregnant women in each site was conducted using systematic random sampling technique. A total of 243 pregnant women who gave written informed consent were enrolled. Standardized tool was used to record demographics, obstetric history and serology results. HBsAg and hepatitis B e antigen(HBeAg) were tested using point-of-care rapid diagnostic test. All HBsAg positive samples were verified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The mean age of participants was 26 ± 6 years. The overall hepatitis HBsAg prevalence was 13.8% with higher rate(22%) reported in women between 30-34 years of age. Majority of HBsAg positive participants were Melanesians(29 out for 33). None of the pregnant women in the 15-19 years and ≥ 40 years tested positive for HBsAg. There was no statistically significant difference in HBsAg prevalence by age, ethnicity, education and residential location. The overall HBeAg seroprevalence was 36.7%. Women between 20-24 years of age had the highest rate of 54.5%. Low level of knowledge about hepatitis B vaccination was reputed. Overall, 54.6% of participants were not aware of their hepatitis B vaccination status and only 65.2% of mothers reported their child had been vaccinated. CONCLUSION Hepatitis B is a disease of public health importance in Solomon Islands and emphasize the need for integrated preventative interventions for its control.

Seroprevalence of hepatitis A antibodies among children in a Saudi community

Objective:To determine the current seroprevalence of antibodies against hepatitis A virus in selected group of children aged 1-6 years in Northern borders region,Saudi Arabia,and to identify risk factors for infection.Methods:A cross-sectional sero-epidemiological study of 950 children who attended 10 randomly selected primary health care centers(5 urban and 5 rural) was done.Parents of all children were subjected to a questionnaire including sociodemographic and housing environmental data.The determination of anti-HAV antibodies was carried out by ELISA-test.Results:The prevalence of HAV-IgG was 33.8%overall,35.5%among males and 32.0%among females with no statistically significant difference.Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that increasing age,rural residence,non Saudi nationality,and non availability of safe municipal water source were the most important independent predictors for HAV seropositivity in the studied children.Conclusions:There is a clear decrease in hepatitis A prevalence in the studied children particularly in urban areas and indicates that a transition may be underway to intermediate endemicity and possible shift of the risk to the adult age with increased morbidity.So,we recommend including Hepatitis A in the schedule of routine childhood vaccinations.

Seroprevalence of <i>Neospora caninum</i>in Sheep and Goats from Grenada, West Indies

Neospora caninum (N. caninum), an intracellular protozoan parasite, causes abortion and neonatal mortality in many herbivores including sheep and goats. The aim of this study was to estimate the Seroprevalence of N. caninum in sheep and goats in Grenada, West Indies. Sera were collected from 138 sheep and 138 goats from all six parishes of Grenada and Carriacou, a small island within Grenada. Animals were identified by gender. Sera were tested for antibodies for N. caninum using an indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbant Assay (ELISA) multispecies Kit from Pourquire Laboratorie (IDvet, France). Antibodies to N. caninum were detected in 18 of 138 sheep (13%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.39% to 18.61%) and 8 of 138 goats (5.8%, 95% CI: 1.9% to 9.7%). Although seropositivity was high in female sheep and in male goats, there was no statistical difference in seropositivity of males and females in both species of animals (p > 0.05, χ2). The results of this study revealed that sheep and goats in Grenada were exposed to N. caninum and dogs might be considered as a source of infection. There was a need to educate the farmers, possessing small ruminants, about the transmission cycle of N. caninum and methods of prevention, to minimize the exposure of their flocks. This is the first report on seroprevalence of N. caninum in Grenada, West Indies.

Seroprevalence of Dengue Viral Infection among Adults Attending the University of Cape Coast Hospital

Introduction: Most febrile illnesses in Ghana are often misdiagnosed and presumptively treated as malaria. This situation may be due to the inappropriate diagnostic tool, clinical oversight and lack of awareness of some of the disease conditions that might have been present in the country. This study sought to investigate the seroprevalence of dengue virus, geographical location of participants with circulating antibodies and finally evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a Rapid diagnostic kit (RDT) using Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA) as a gold standard for confirmation. Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adults (≥18) attending the University of Cape Coast Hospital. From each participant, 3 - 4 ml of venous blood was drawn and serum was tested for IgG and IgM using RDT methods. Positive samples were selected for ELISA confirmation. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (v.20) and STATA (v.14) software. Results: A total of 270 participants were enrolled in the study. The geometric mean age was 32 years. Overall, Dengue virus (DENV) IgG seroprevalence by RDT was 10 (3.7%). Seroprevalence of IgG and IgM by the ELISA method was 34 (12.6%) and 6 (2.2%) respectively. Females recorded a high seroprevalence (7.4%) than males (5.2%) in terms of past exposure (IgG). On current exposure (IgM), females recorded a high seroprevalence (1.5%) than males (0.7%). Seroprevalence of individuals with dual positivity ((IgG + IgM+) (acute secondary infection) was 1.9%. Those with primary and recent infection (IgM+ only) were 0.4% whiles those with past and probably secondary infection (IgG+ only) were 10.7%. The odds of dengue exposure were significantly high among participants with ages 50 - 59 as compared to their other counterparts (AOR = 3.5, p = 0.03). Diagnostic accuracy of RDT kit was poor (Kappa value = 0.373 and 0.0001). Elmina was noted to record the highest seroprevalence values for both anti-dengue IgG (3.3%) and IgM (1.85%). Conclusion: The seroprevalence of anti-dengue IgG and IgM among participants suggests that dengue virus is in circulation in Cape Coast Metropolis and Komenda Edina Eguafo Abirem Municipality.

Seroprevalence of Bovine Parainfluenza Virus Type 3 (bPI-3V) in Ruminants from Grenada

Respiratory viral infections are known for serious economic losses in ruminants. Bovine parain-fluenza 3 virus (bPI-3V) a member of Respirovirus genus in association with other respiratory viruses causes respiratory disease complex in ruminants. The aim of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of bPI-3V in non vaccinated cattle, sheep and goats from Grenada. Sera were collected randomly from 60 sheep, 60 goats and 60 cattle from all six parishes of Grenada. Sera were tested for antibodies to bPI-3V using an indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbant Assay (ELISA) kit. Antibodies to bPI-3V were detected in 13.4% (Confidence Level (CL): 95%;Confidence Interval (CI): 4.76% to 22.02%) in cattle;16.7% (CL: 95%;CI: 7.26% to 26.14%) in sheep and 11.7% (CL: 95%;CI: 3.57% to 19.83%) in goats. There was statistically no significant difference in prevalence (p > 0.05) of antibodies to bPI-3V in cattle, sheep and goats in Grenada. This is the first report on seroprevalence of bPI-3V in ruminants in Grenada, West Indies.

Seroprevalence of cysticercosis in North Indian population

Objective:To estimate the seroprevalence,morbidity of Taenia solium(T.solium) cysticercosis and its relationship to socio-economic,sanitary parameters.Methods:Using multistage stratified random sampling.2 500 subjects from urban(n=1 250) and rural population(n =1 250) of Lucknow. India were registered.Blood,stool samples,socioeconomic and demographic data were collected. Serum enzyme-linked-immunosorbent-assay(ELISA) was used to detect anticysticercus IgG and IgM antibodies.Microscopic examination of stool samples after processing by concentration method was done to observe taeniasis and other intestinal parasites.CT scan of seropositive cases presenting with seizures was done for confirmation of neurocysticercosis.Results:The overall,urban and rural seroprevalence of T.solium cysticercosis was 3.48%,4.64%and 2.32%, respectively.The risk factors significantly associated with the disease were pig rearing in both study populations,unsanitary waste disposal in urban,vegetarian diet and open defecation in rural population.One case of intestinal taeniasis was observed.Twenty-six of 30 cases undergoing CT scan were diagnosed as neurocysticercosis.Conclusions:Seroprevalence of cysticercosis is high in the study community.Prevalence of cysticercosis is related to roaming pigs and behavioral and environmental practices in local community.Health education and identification of tapeworm carriers seems promising control strategy.

Seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis and rubella in pregnant women attending antenatal private clinic at Ouagadougou,Burkina Faso

Objective:To evaluate the prevalence of toxoplasmosis and rubella among pregnant women at Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso.Methods:All patient sera were tested for rubella and toxoplasmosis anti-IgG using commercial ELISA kits(PlateliaTMRubella IgG and Platelia? Toxo IgG).The presence of anti-rubella and anti-toxoplasmosis tgM in serum samples was tested using commercial ELISA kits Platelia Rubella TgM and Platelia Toxo IgM.Results:Among all the pregnant women tested for toxoplasmosis and rubella,their prevalence were 20.3% and 77.0%,respectively.Pregnant women in the age group of 18-25 years showed the highest frequency of anti-toxoplasmosis（34.5%） and anti-rubella IgG（84.6%）.The prevalence of anti-toxoplasma and anti-rubella IgG decreased between 2006 and 2008 from 32.7%to 12.1%and 84.6% to 65.0%,respectively.There was no significant association between age and the mean titer of anti-toxoplasmosis IgG among pregnant women.Conclusions:The diagnosis of toxoplasmosis and rubella is necessary in pregnant women in Burkina Faso because of the low immunization coverage rate of rubella and the high level of exposure to these two infections which can be harmful to the newborn if contracted by women before the third trimester of pregnancy.

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in dogs and cats in Zhenjiang City,Eastern China

Objective:To determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii(T.gondii) infection in dogs and cats in Zhenjiang City,Jiangsu Province.Eastern China,and to evaluate the main associated risk factors relating to exposure to 71 gondii in this region.Methods:Sera from 160 clogs and 116 cats from Zhenjiang City were tested for anti-T.gondii antibodies using EUSA.The seropositivity by area of activity,sex and age was analyzed.Results:Overall.21 dogs(13.l%) and 24 cats(20.7%) had antibodies to T.gondii.The infection rate in stray dogs(38.7%) and cats(28.6%! was significantly higher(P<0.05) than in household dogs(6.9%) and cats(18.2%).The seroprevalence in male clogs(14.8%) and cats(21.05%) were slighlly higher than their female counterparts(11.4%in dogs and 20.0%in cats),but were not significantly differenent(P>0.05).A high proportion of dogs at 3 to 6 years of age were positive to T.gondii(20.0%)while cats with relatively high seropositivity rates were at 0 to 1 year of age(33.3%).Conclusions:The prevalence of T.gondii infection in dogs and cats in Zhenjiang City was high,which is probably the main source of T.gondii infection in this area.

Seroprevalence of varicella zoster virus in Colombo district, Sri Lanka

Objective: To determine the seroprevalence of varicella zoster virus(VZV) antibodies among the population residing in the Colombo district of Sri Lanka. Methods: A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted which included 1 258 participants. Blood samples were collected and questionnaires administered to obtain sociodemographic information and history of varicella and/or herpes zoster. Serum samples were assayed for VZV IgG antibodies using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: Overall, the seroprevalence was 54.2%(95% CI= 51.5% 57.0%). Children below 1 year of age were seronegative, and only about 20.0% of children between 1 and 10 years of age were seropositive. Seropositivitiy increased with age and by the age of 40 years 74.3% were seropositive. Among women of childbearing age, the overall seroprevalence was about 62.0%(95% CI = 57.7%-66.1%) but was low 37.0% in the 15-19 age group. Conclusion: In this population, 45.8% lacked natural immunity against varicella. Of women of childbearing age, 39.9% lacked immunity and in the subgroup of women 15-19 years of age, 63.0% women lacked immunity. In light of the country's success with the control and high coverage of other vaccine preventable diseases and that the vaccine is available in the private sector, the inclusion of varicella vaccine in the national immunization program may be considered.

HBsAg seroprevalence among Senegalese militaries

Background: Chronic hepatitis is a major public health problem. The hepatitis B virus is the primary cause, and Hepatitis B and C together are responsible for 60% of cirrhosis and 80% of hepatocellular carcinomas. This study measured the prevalence of HBsAg among Senegalese military to develop a strategy to prevent cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in the army.Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study among Senegalese army staff aged 25 to 60 years and divided this group into three strata: 25-34, 35-44 and 45-60 years. A sample of 1224 participants was selected following a two-level stratification. The mark of surface HBs antigen(Ag) was performed on 1195 participants using chemiluminescence(qualitative Architect HBsAg of Abbott Diagnostics Laboratories Germany) and enzyme immunoassay(Determines HBsAg) methods. The presence of HBsAg was analyzed according to age, marital status, alcohol consumption and glomerular filtration rate. Epi-info6 and R software were used, respectively, for data capture and analyses. A Chi-square test was performed to compare proportions considering an alpha significance level of 5% and a confidence interval of 95%.Results: The average age was 39.8±9.2 years. Participants in the age groups of 25-34 years, 45-60 years and 35-44 years were 30.7%, 34.4% and 34.9% of the sample, respectively. Married persons accounted for 82.6% of participants, and 17.08% were single. Most participants were educated(99%), and 56% had reached at least the secondary school level. Alcohol consumption was at 11.5%. The HBsAg prevalence rate was 10.8% [9.1% to 12.7%] with a significant difference between age groups(P<0.001), which ranged from 5.6% for 45-60 years, 9.62% in the 25-34 years group and 16.9% for the 35-44 years group. Marital status and alcohol consumption did not affect the carriage of HBsAg. The prevalence of HBsAg was more common among participants who had a glomerular filtration rate greater than 90 ml/min. Transaminases rate exceeded the normal threshold in 43 participants(3.6%). The increase was 6.6% [2.7% to 11.8%] of HBsAg carriers and 3.2% [1.2% to 6.7%] of alcohol users.Conclusion: The high prevalence of HBsAg in the military requires the implementation of an accessible prevention and care program to reduce the risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. This program will contribute to reducing the burden of communicable diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS, and non-communicable diseases in the armed forces.

Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus in Human and Pigs in Pig Farms from Guangdong Province,Southern China

Hepatitis E is caused by hepatitis E virus(HEV),which has been classifi ed into four genotypes.Genotypes 3 and 4 are regarded as zoonotic pathogens.Accumulating researches indicate that genotype 4 is the main HEV strain circulating in China,and there are high levels of seropositive pigs and human in some provinces of China.In this study,serum samples from pigs and from human occupationally exposed to pigs were obtained from pig farms in Guangdong Province,in subtropical southern China,in order to investigate for the fi rst time the prevalence of anti-HEV immunoglobulin G(Ig G)in the region.Antibodies against HEV were detected by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay(ELISA)using a commercially marketed kit.The results showed that high numbers of pigs(74/94;78.7%)and human(50/94;53.2%)from three pig farms in Guangdong Province were positive for anti-HEV Ig G.The correlation coeffi cient relating the prevalence in pigs and human on different farms was 0.920.The seropositive rate in males(human)was 48.8%(20/41)and that in females was 47.7%(9/19),which showed no statistically signifi cant difference.These data indicated that there was a high prevalence of anti-HEV antibodies in pigs and in human with occupational exposure to pigs.The risk of infection with HEV in both human and pigs in Guangdong Province appeared to be age-dependent,to a certain extent.This study provided basic data for further researches on HEV and was a reminder that more attention should be paid to HEV infection both in pigs and workers on pig farms in the study region.

Seroprevalence of <i>Clostridium tetani</i>in Donkeys in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Tetanus is an acute non-contagious and infectious disease caused by Clostridium tetani exotoxins that affect many animal species and humans. It is associated with high mortality rate, ranging from 58% to 80% in Equidae. This study investigated the seroprevalence of C. tetani antibodies in donkeys in Kaduna State. A total of 384 donkeys were sampled from the study area, 5 ml of blood was collected aseptically from the jugular vein and sera was harvested and tested for tetanus using ELISA kits. A seroprevalence of C. tetani of 295/384 (76.8%) was recorded. Male donkeys had a higher sero-prevalence (89.9%) than female (64.1%), young donkeys had 78.5% compared to 75.7% for adults;donkeys with wounds had a seroprevalence of 92.1% while those without wounds (42.4%). Donkeys from free range had a higher seroprevalence of 88.0%. Donkeys with BCS of 1 and 2 had 87.8% being the highest value, based on breeds, the Fari and Idabari had the higher seroprevalence (85.7% and 87.2% respectively), It was concluded that the donkeys in the Northern Kaduna had a high seroprevalence to C. tetani and also sex, age, breeds and presence of wounds were the main risk factors to C. tetani infection in donkeys and it was recommended that the use of donkeys in production of tetanus antitoxins and toxoid should be investigated.

Seroprevalence and Molecular Biodiversity of Hepatitis B and Delta Virus Infections in the Republic of Congo

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem in the world. In Congo, studies on the prevalence of HBV infection are common but HDV infection is rare. Objective: Contribute to improve the management and prevention of HBV and HDV infections. Patients and Methods: This was a descriptive and cross-sectional study conducted from January to August 2016 in the health services of the various departments of Congo and at the national public health laboratory in Brazzaville. All patients with HBsAg surface antigen who were at least 18 years old and who consented to the study were included. The HBs antigen was first tested by a rapid test then confirmed by ELISA. All HBsAg positive patients were subsequently subjected to a second ELISA test for Delta antibody. The techniques of extraction and conventional and specific gene amplification were carried out on plasma for the identification of the genotypes of the two viruses. The data analysis was done with EpiInfo V7 software. The proportions were compared using the Chi-square test or the Fisher test at the significance level of 5%. Results: 1618 subjects were included, of whom 180 were positive for HBsAg, a frequency of 11.12%. The sex ratio (M/F) was 0.77%, the mean age was 40.2 ± 15.6 years with extremes ranging from 18 to 88 years. Of the 180 HBsAg positive, 22 were anti-VHD positive, a frequency of 12.22%. HBV DNA was amplified in 83.8% (151/180), HDV RNA in 63.6% (14/22). For HBV, three genotypes were identified: E (46.9%), A (43.7%) and D (9.4%), however for VHD three genotypes D1, D5, D8 were identified. Conclusion: Co-infection of hepatitis B and Delta viruses is common in Congo. The management and prevention of hepatitis B must take into account the reality of this co-infection.