Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in HIV-positive and negative groups in some selected semi-urban areas in Nasarawa state, Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of the study is to determine the occurrence of intestinal parasites among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive and negative groups. Materials and Methods: A case–control study was conducted in four semi-urban areas in Nasarawa State. The study enrolled 422 participants. Stool samples were collected and examined for the presence of intestinal parasites. Blood sample was collected to investigate for HIV infection. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal infections among HIV-positive individuals was 37.7% (78/207). For geohelminth infections, HIV-positive individuals were more commonly infected by hookworm at a rate of 9.7% (20/207). For Protozoa infections, HIV-positive groups were identified more with Giardia lamblia, at a rate of 8.2% (17/207). The binary logistic regression showed that factors significantly associated with parasite infections among HIV-positive individuals included being under 43 years of age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.192, confidence interval [CI]: 0.082, 3.736) and subjects with diarrhea (OR = 1.521, CI: 0.112, 2.891) for geohelminth parasite. While in the case of Protozoa infections, parasitic infections are higher among study subjects with diarrhea (OR = 1.767, CI: 0.111, 3.009). Conclusion: HIV-positive individuals are more susceptible to coinfections with hookworm (geohelminth) and G. lamblia (Protozoa), which are more prevalent among those with poor personal hygiene habits. This indicates a need for an integrated approach to hygiene promotion, surveillance, and treatment.