Seroprevalence data at a private teaching hospital in Kenya: An examination of Toxoplasma gondii, cytomegalovirus, rubella, hepatitis A, and Entamoeba histolytica.

Audrey I Nisbet,Geoffrey Omuse,Rodney D Adam,Gunturu Revathi

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0204867

Abstract

BackgroundRelevant seroprevalence data for endemic pathogens in a given region provide insight not only into a population’s susceptibility to acute infection or risk for reactivation disease but also into the potential need for policy initiatives aimed at reducing these risks. Data from sub-Saharan Africa are sparse and since Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi is an internationally accredited hospital equipped with a laboratory electronic medical record system, analysis of pertinent local seroprevalence data has been made possible.MethodsWe have analyzed serology data from laboratory electronic records at a 300 bed tertiary private teaching hospital in Kenya for the dates, 2008 to 2017 for Toxoplasma gondii, cytomegalovirus, and rubella, which were used primarily for antenatal screening. We also analyzed the data from hepatitis A and amebiasis serologies, which were used primarily for diagnostic purposes.ResultsFor T. gondii, cytomegalovirus, and rubella, we used IgG serology to determine seroprevalence, finding rates of 32%, 86%, and 89%, respectively. There was no significant age-related difference in the 20 to 49 year old age range for any of these three pathogens. Of the Hepatitis A IgM tests that were ordered, 33% were positive with a peak positive rate of 70% in the five to nine year old age range. The seroprevalence of amebiasis was 4% and all cases of seropositivity were accompanied by compatible clinical illness (hepatic abscess).ConclusionsThese data provide insight into seroprevalence rates of selected pathogens that can be used to guide screening and diagnostic laboratory testing as well as private and public immunization practices.

Highlights

Data from sub-Saharan Africa are sparse and since Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi is an internationally accredited hospital equipped with a laboratory electronic medical record system, analysis of pertinent local seroprevalence data has been made possible
Of the Hepatitis A IgM tests that were ordered, 33% were positive with a peak positive rate of 70% in the five to nine year old age range
Seroprevalence data can provide information useful for clinicians when it comes to timely initial empirical treatment, patient education, and evaluation of susceptibility to acute infection or risk for reactivation disease in vulnerable patient populations

Summary

Introduction

Seroprevalence data can provide information useful for clinicians when it comes to timely initial empirical treatment, patient education, and evaluation of susceptibility to acute infection or risk for reactivation disease in vulnerable patient populations. These data can be leveraged by public health officials and policy makers during the formulation of vaccination guidelines, patient screening practices, and health communication initiatives. Data from sub-Saharan Africa are sparse and since Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi is an internationally accredited hospital equipped with a laboratory electronic medical record system, analysis of pertinent local seroprevalence data has been made possible

Methods

Results

Conclusion