Exploring the Relationship Between Age, Gender, and Urinary Tract Infections In Febrile Under-Five Children At Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in young children, particularly under-fives, remain a significant health concern, often overlooked due to non-specific symptoms and challenges in obtaining urine samples. This research aimed to discern the relationship between UTIs and demographic factors like age and gender. Conducted in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria, the study enrolled 170 febrile children aged 0-59 months, collecting urine samples and assessing symptoms. While the overall prevalence of UTI was not significantly different between genders or age groups, certain trends emerged. Female infants showed a notably higher UTI prevalence, potentially attributed to anatomical factors facilitating bacterial translocation. Interestingly, UTI was absent in older female participants (48-59 months), possibly due to increased immunity, improved hygiene, and toilet training. Non-specific symptoms predominated presentations, emphasizing the importance of considering UTI in the differential diagnosis for febrile under-five children. Keywords: Urinary tract infection, under-five children, prevalence, age, gender, Nigeria