Prevalence of Transfusion Transmissible Infections in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital

Ajugwo Ao,Digban Ka,Eledo Bo,Erhabor Ta,Eze Ri

doi:10.21767/2573-0320.100011

Abstract

Millions of lives are saved each year through blood transfusion. Nevertheless, blood unscreened for transfusion transmissible infections (TTI) is a major public health problem. The prevalence of HIV, HBsAg, HCV and syphilis among blood donors reflect the status in the community hence the need for this study. A total of 108 donors comprising 11 family replacement donors, 32 voluntary donors and 65 paid donors were tested for antibodies to HIV, HBsAg, HCV and, syphilis using rapid serological screening methods. Among the 108 blood donors screened at the Madonna University Teaching Hospital (MUTH) Elele, the prevalence rates of HIV, HBsAg and HCV were 5.6%, 4.6% and 2.8%, respectively. All of the subjects tested negative to syphilis. The percentage positive based on the donor source was 4.6%, 4.6% and 0.9% for HIV, HBsAg and HCV, respectively among the paid donors, 1% for HIV among the voluntary donor and 1.9% for HCV among the family replacement donors. The prevalence rate for HIV and HBsAg co-infection was 0.9% as only one donor tested positive to both. Blood donors in MUTH Elele are relatively safe but efforts should be intensified in ensuring maximum safety. This can be achieved by screen

Highlights

The need for blood transfusion in patients care and treatment cannot be over emphasized [1]
Among the 108 blood donors screened at the Madonna University Teaching Hospital (MUTH) Elele, the prevalence rates of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), HBsAg and HCV were 5.6%, 4.6% and 2.8%, respectively
The prevalence of transfusion transmissible infections (TTls) in blood to be transfused to recipient who by virtue of his/ her compromised health status is at a disadvantaged position, calls for serious health concern

Summary

Introduction

The need for blood transfusion in patients care and treatment cannot be over emphasized [1]. World Health Organization (WHO) has accorded the utmost priority to ensure the safety of blood In essence, it has mandated the screening of blood donors for at least 4 of the TTI namely: HIV 1 and 2; HBsAg; HCV and Syphilis. They donate blood not really for altruistic reasons but out of necessity and often reluctantly While they may be safe, in their concern to ensure availability of blood for the patient, FRD may hide information which may lead to their rejection as donors. Sometimes, they are paid donors in disguise [8]. Rules and guidelines governing sample collection from humans and processing for research purposes were strictly adhered to

Result

Discussion

Conclusion