Mount Cameroon Area Research Articles

Geotechnical Assessment of Seismic Vulnerability in the Built Environment of Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon

Introduction: Volcanic earthquakes may trigger severe hazards with considerable impact on the natural and built environment and the surrounding population. Aim: Evaluate the geotechnical characteristics of soils in Fako division to estimate their seismic vulnerability and recommend suitable stabilization techniques to enhance the safety and resilience of built environments. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted over a period of 12 months beginning from June 2022 to May 2023. Methodology: It employed a multi-criteria geotechnical approach, involving soil sampling, laboratory analysis, and seismic risk analysis. Soil samples collected from various locations within the study area, were subjected to laboratory tests to determine their plasticity (Atterberg limits) and load-bearing capacity (California Bearing Ratio - CBR). Historical data analysis and seismic hazard mapping were used to assess seismic vulnerability which helped to identify highly susceptible and unstable areas that may require engineered interventions. Results: The findings revealed significant variations in soil plasticity and load-bearing capacity, correlating with observed settlement and instability issues in the region. Historical seismic events, highlighted significant structural damage in areas with high plasticity and low CBR values, underscoring the necessity for robust soil stabilization measures (geotechnical interventions) to mitigate seismic risks and enhance the resilience and safety of structures, reducing the risk of settlement and instability within the Mount Cameroon area, particularly Fako Division.

Magnifying the hotspot: descriptions of nine new species of many-plumed moths (Lepidoptera, Alucitidae), with an identification key to all species known from Cameroon.

This study confirms Mount Cameroon as an unprecedented hotspot for the diversity of many-plumed moths, with the discovery and description of nine new species: Alucitafako Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucitapyrczi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucitasroczki Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucitapotockyi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucitasedlaceki Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucitatonda Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucitaerzayi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucitasokolovi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., and Alucitahirsuta Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov. Additionally, four additional species are reported from the Mount Cameroon area as new for the country: Alucitaagassizi, Alucitadohertyi, Alucitaplumigera, and Alucitarhaptica. Of the 89 Alucitidae known from the Afrotropics, the studied area hosts 36 species, most of which are endemic to the area. This unprecedented level of diversity and endemism within this lepidopteran family highlights Mount Cameroon's significance as a stronghold for specialised insect taxa. Efficient conservation efforts are necessary to protect these ecosystems and their associated unique microlepidopteran diversity.

Seasonal and environmental dynamics of intra-urban freshwater habitats and their influence on the abundance of Bulinus snail host of Schistosoma haematobium in the Tiko endemic focus, Mount Cameroon region.

Urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) caused by Schistosoma haematobium is endemic in the South West Region of Cameroon. An understanding of the abundance and distribution of the Bulinus snail, intermediate host can inform strategic snail control programmes at a local scale. This study investigated seasonal dynamics and environmental factors influencing occurrence and abundance of freshwater snail intermediate hosts in Tiko, a semi-urban endemic focus in the Mount Cameroon area. A longitudinal malacological field survey was conducted between December 2019 and December 2020 in the Tiko municipality. Snails were collected for one year monthly at 12 different human water contact sites along a stretch of the Ndongo stream using a standardized sampling technique. Freshwater snails were identified using shell morphological features. In addition, water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solutes, salinity, water depth, width and flow velocity were measured, and vegetation cover as well as substrate type were determined. Bayesian regression models were used to identify the main environmental factors affecting the occurrence and abundance of Bulinus intermediate host. In total, 2129 fresh water snails were collected during the study period. Physa (51.4%) was the most abundant genus followed by Melanoides (28.6%) then, Bulinus (15.5%), Lymnaea (4.2%), Indoplanorbis (0.2%) and Potadoma (0.1%). Seasonality in abundance was significant in Bulinus sp as well as other genera, with greater numbers in the dry season (peaks between December and February). Water temperature, a rocky or sandy substrate type associated positively with Bulinus sp, meanwhile a higher water flow rate and medium vegetation negatively influenced the snail intermediate host population. These findings underscore the importance of timing behavioural and snail control interventions against schistosomiasis as well as increase vigilance of other trematode diseases in the study area. The continuous spread of planorbid snail hosts is a major concern.

Association between malaria and undernutrition among pregnant women at presentation for antenatal care in health facilities in the Mount Cameroon region.

In resource limited settings, malaria and undernutrition are major public health problems in pregnancy. Therefore, this study assessed the association between malaria infection and undernutrition among pregnant women in the Mount Cameroon area. This cross-sectional study enrolled 1,014 pregnant women consecutively over a year. A structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic information and clinical data. Maternal nutrition was assessed using dietary diversity (DD). Peripheral blood samples collected were used for the diagnosis of malaria parasitaemia by microscopy whereas haemoglobin (Hb) levels were determined using an Hb meter. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with malaria and dietary diversity. The prevalence of malaria infection and undernutrition was 17.8% and 89.6% respectively. In addition, of those infected with malaria, geometric mean parasite density was 301/μL of blood (range: 40-9280) while mean DD score was 3.57±0.82 (range: 1-7). The odds of being infected with malaria parasitaemia was highest among women enrolled in the rainy season (OR = 1.58, P = 0.043), who were farmers (OR = 2.3, P = 0.030), had a household size of < 4 individuals (OR = 1.48, P = 0.026) and who were febrile (OR = 1.87, P < 0.001). Also, attending clinic visits in Mutengene Medical Centre (OR = 2.0, P = 0.012) or Buea Integrated Health Centre (OR = 2.9, P = < 0.001), being < 25 years (OR = 2.4, P = 0.002) and a farmer (OR = 10.6, P = 0.024) as well as < 4 clinic visits (OR = 1.62, P = 0.039) were identified as predictors of undernutrition. Furthermore, the association between malaria and DD was statistically significant (P = 0.015). In this study, undernutrition was highly frequent than malaria infection. Thus, there is an urgent need to improve maternal awareness through nutritional counselling and health campaigns on the benefits of consuming at least five food groups. Besides, improved maternal dietary nutrient intake is likely to have impact on the burden of malaria parasite infection.

Anaemia, iron deficiency and inflammation prevalence in children in the Mount Cameroon area and the contribution of inflammatory cytokines on haemoglobin and ferritin concentrations: a cross sectional study

BackgroundIron deficiency (ID) and anaemia of inflammation (AI) coexist where infections and nutritional deficiencies are common. The aim of this study was to determine burden of ID, anaemia, inflammation and AI in children in malaria endemic Limbe, Mount Cameroon as well as decipher the contribution of some inflammatory cytokines on the concentration of haemoglobin and ferritin.MethodsA total of 520 children aged ≤ 15 years old from the Limbe Health District (LHD) were randomly selected and examined in a cross-sectional study for iron deficiency, anaemia, inflammation and inflammation anaemia. Collected blood samples were used for full blood count and inflammatory marker analyses with the aid of a haemoanalyzer and ELISA machine, respectively. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between cytokines and haemoglobin while multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the effects of inflammatory cytokines on haemoglobin and ferritin concentrations.ResultsThe overall prevalence of anaemia, ID, IDA, inflammation and AI were respectively, 67.5%, 34.6%, 12.9%, 63.1% and 30.2%. Children aged 12‒15 years (P = 0.001), enrolled from the community (P < 0.001), whose parents are civil servants (P < 0.001), living in a home with 6‒10 occupants (P = 0.016), afebrile (P < 0.001) and malaria negative (P = 0.007) had the highest prevalence of ID while, children ≤ 5 years old (P = 0.001), with a family size of 1‒5 occupants (P = 0.033) had the highest prevalence of AI. Haemoglobin concentration positively correlated with concentrations of IFN-γ (P < 0.001), TNF-α (0.045) and ferritin (P < 0.001) while a negative correlation was observed with IL-10 (P = 0.003). In the multiple linear regression analysis only IL-6 significantly (P = 0.030) influenced haemoglobin concentration.ConclusionsWhile IL-6 is of significance in the pathology of anaemia, iron deficiency and anaemia of inflammation are of moderate public health concerns in the Mount Cameroon area. Hence, appropriate intervention against anaemia, ID and AI should be directed at children ≤ 5 years and counterparts > 10 years old that bear the highest burden.

Environmental impact assessment and statistical analysis of natural radioactivity in the slopes of Mount Cameroon area

Environmental impact assessment and statistical analysis of natural radioactivity in the slopes of Mount Cameroon area

An Assessment and Geostatistics of Land-Use and Selected Physico-Chemical Properties of Soils in the Mount Cameroon Area

This work investigated the land-use/land-cover and some physico-chemical properties of the soils of Mt Cameroon and presented same in maps. ArcGIS Pro mapping software, Landsat images, Global Positioning Systems (GPS) coordinates collected from the field combined with updated shape files from competent services were used to produce the location and land-use/land-cover maps. Sixteen topsoil samples (0 - 20 cm) were collected, 4 from each land use/cover category: farmland, forest, plantation and settlement, and analysed for soil pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), bulk density, moisture content and soil texture, in the laboratory using standard analytical procedures. This data was used to produce spatial distribution maps using ordinary kriging, in ArcGIS Pro. The main terrestrial land use/cover categories comprised of the forest (mangrove, lowland, montane and sub-montane), agroforestry, plantations, grassland, settlement, cropland, shrubby savannah, and bare lava. Bulk density showed the highest values in settlement areas and least values under forest land-use categories. Soil moisture content exhibited a reverse trend compared to that of soil bulk density. Forest soils were the sandiest while soils in plantation agricultural land were the most clayey. The soils were slightly acidic to neutral with soils from agricultural land being more acidic (pH(water) = 5.43). It is discernible from the results that the conversion from forest to other land use/cover classes enhances soil degradation and that soil physico-chemical properties adequately serve as indicators of soil quality in the Mt Cameroon area.

Malnutrition, anaemia and anisocytosis as public health problems among children ≤ 5 years living in malaria perennial transmission areas of Mount Cameroon: a cross sectional study

BackgroundAnaemia, anisocytosis, malnutrition (especially stunting) are common health problems in developing countries with children being the most vulnerable. These conditions have negative impacts on human performance, growth and development, and can further be complicated if comorbidity exists within a holoendemic stratum with strong and perennial malaria parasite transmission such as the Mount Cameroon area. The study aimed at determining the prevalence and severity malnutrition, anaemia and anisocytosis in children ≤ 5 years, living in the conflict hit malaria perennial transmission zone of the Mount Cameroon area.MethodA cross-sectional community-based survey involving 628 children ≤ 5 years was conducted. Malaria parasitaemia was confirmed by Giemsa-stained microscopy and the density was log transformed. Haemoglobin (Hb), mean cell volume and red blood cell distribution width were estimated using an auto-haematology analyser and defined according to WHO standards. Anthropometric indices were analysed and compared with WHO growth reference standards using WHO Anthro software.ResultsPlasmodium infection, anaemia, microcytic anaemia, anisocytosis and stunting were prevalent in 36.0, 72.8, 30.1, 54.1 and 29.0% of the children, respectively. The ≤ 24 months children were more moderately stunted (14.7%), with higher prevalence of microcytic anaemia (38.8%) and anisocytosis (68.8%) (P < 0.002 and P < 0.001, respectively) when compared with the older children. The mean Hb level in the study population was 10.04 g/dL with children ≤ 24 months having the least mean haemoglobin level (9.69 g/dL) when compared with their older counterparts at P < 0.001. The odds of having anisocytosis were highest among children who were malnourished (OR = 4.66, P = 0.005), those infected with malaria parasites (OR = 1.85, P = 0.007), and whose parents had a primary (OR = 3.51, P = 0.002) and secondary levels of education (OR = 2.69, P = 0.017).ConclusionMalaria, anaemia, anisocytosis and undernutrition still remain severe public health concerns among children ≤ 60 months in the Mount Cameroon area. This therefore emphasizes the need for the implementation of consistent policies, programmes and activities to avoid malaria, anaemia, anisocytosis and stunting in the paediatric age group.

Asymptomatic and sub-microscopic Plasmodium falciparum infection in children in the Mount Cameroon area: a cross-sectional study on altitudinal influence, haematological parameters and risk factors

BackgroundThe Mount Cameroon area has experienced a 57.2% decline in confirmed malaria cases between 2006 and 2013 with the implementation of different control measures but, the disease is still of public health concern. The objective of the study was to assess the burden of asymptomatic and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection, altitudinal influence on it, their effect on haematological parameters as well as identify the risk factors of infection.MethodologyA cross-sectional community-based survey involving 1319 children of both sexes aged 6 months to 14 years was conducted between July 2017 and May 2018. Malaria parasitaemia was confirmed by Giemsa-stained microscopy, sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection by 18S mRNA using nested PCR and full blood count analysis was done using an auto haematology analyser.ResultsMalaria parasite, asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection and anaemia were prevalent in 36.4%, 34.0%, 43.8% and 62.3% of the children, respectively. The risk of having sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection was highest in children 5‒9 (OR = 3.13, P < 0.001) and 10‒14 years of age (OR = 8.18, P < 0.001), non-insecticide treated net users (OR = 1.69, P < 0.04) and those anaemic (OR = 9.01, P < 0.001). Children with sub-microscopic infection had a significantly lower mean haemoglobin (9.86 ± 1.7 g/dL, P < 0.001), red blood cell counts (4.48 ± 1.1 × 1012/L, P < 0.001), haematocrit (31.92%, P < 0.001), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (313.25 ± 47.36, P = 0.035) and platelet counts (280.83 ± 112.62, P < 0.001) than their negative counterparts. Children < 5 years old (73.8%), having asymptomatic (69.8%) and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection (78.3%) as well as resident in the middle belt (72.7%) had a higher prevalence of anaemia than their peers.ConclusionThe meaningful individual-level heterogeneity in the burden of asymptomatic and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection in addition to its corollary on haematological variables among children in the different attitudinal sites of the Mount Cameroon Region accentuate the need for strategic context specific planning of malaria control and preventative measures.

Insecticide-treated net ownership, utilization and knowledge of malaria in children residing in Batoke\u2013Limbe, Mount Cameroon area: effect on malariometric and haematological indices

BackgroundInsecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are the most widely used interventions for malaria control in Africa. The aim of this study was to assess the ownership and utilization of ITNs and the knowledge of malaria and their effects on malariometric and haematological indices in children living in the Mount Cameroon area.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study involving a total of 405 children aged between 6 months and 14 years living in Batoke–Limbe was carried out between July and October 2017. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to document demographic status, knowledge on malaria and ITN ownership and usage. Venous blood sample was collected from each child to determine the prevalence and intensity of parasitaemia by Giemsa-stained microscopy and full blood count by auto haematology analysis to obtain white blood cell (WBC) and red blood cell (RBC) counts, haemoglobin (Hb) level, haematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC). A multilinear regression model was used to determine the relationship between haematological parameter as dependent variable and the independent variables.ResultsThe overall prevalence of parasitaemia, anaemia, knowledge about malaria, ITN ownership, usage and effective usage was 46.7%, 54.7%, 40.7%, 78.8%, 50.9% and 29.9%, respectively. The prevalence of parasitaemia was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in children who ineffectively utilized ITNs (54.9%) than effective users (27.3%). Having knowledge of malaria, negatively correlated with WBC counts (P = 0.005), but positively correlated with Hb levels (P < 0.001), RBC counts (P < 0.001), Hct (P < 0.001), MCV (P < 0.001) and MCH (P < 0.001). ITN use positively correlated with WBC counts (P = 0.005) but negatively with Hb levels (P = 0.004), RBC counts (P = 0.006), and MCH (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, parasitaemia negatively correlated with Hb levels (P = 0.004), RBC counts (P = 0.01), Hct (P = 0.04) and MCHC (P = 0.015).ConclusionThere is need for more sensitization on the benefits of using the ITNs to meet up with the intended and expected impact of the free distribution of ITNs.

Microcytic and Malarial Anaemia Prevalence in Urban Children ≤15 Years in the Mount Cameroon Area: A Cross-Sectional Study on Risk Factors.

Background Anaemia, a common nutritional deficiency, is a public health problem in the Mount Cameroon area. This study determined the prevalence and possible risk factors of microcytic and malarial anaemia in children less than ≤15 years residing in the Buea and Limbe municipalities in the Mount Cameroon area. Methods A total of 566 children were clinically examined in a cross-sectional study from December 2018 to August 2019 for anaemia and malaria parasites. Blood samples collected were used in evaluating full blood count with the aid of an automated haemoanalyser, and malaria parasite was confirmed by microscopy. Anaemia was defined based on WHO standards while microcytic anaemia and malarial anaemia were defined as microcytosis + anaemia and malaria + anaemia, respectively. Factors that showed significance in the bivariate analysis were entered into a multinomial logistic regression to determine risk factors for microcytic and malarial anaemia. Results The overall prevalence for anaemia, microcytosis, microcytic anaemia, and malarial anaemia was, respectively, 68.7%, 48.9%, 36.9%, and 19.6% with microcytic anaemia representing 53.7% of all anaemic cases. Risk factors for microcytic anaemia included child age of 1–5 years (P=0.007), forest ethnicity (P=0.019), parents being farmers (P=0.038) or jobless (P=0.009), and having moderate malaria parasitaemia (P=0.048) while those for malarial anaemia were child age of 6–10 years (P=0.008), parents' age of 26–35 years (P=0.049), parents being jobless (P=0.023), and consuming plantains 3-4 times (P=0.024) a week. Conclusion Microcytic anaemia is getting to be a severe public health concern while malarial anaemia is a mild public health issue in children residing in urban areas of Mount Cameroon. Parents' occupation was directly linked to all anaemia forms; hence, any intervention to curb anaemia should consider aspects that will raise the socioeconomic status of the population.

Petrography and geochemistry of sulfurous volcanic scoria from mount Cameroon area, Central Africa: Implications for Au-PGE exploration

This study was initiated to discuss the mineralogical and chemical features of volcanic scoria from Mount Cameroon along the Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) for gold and platinum-group elements (Au-PGEs) exploration. The mineral composition has been obtained through thin sections observation and XRD instrument. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and ICP-MS analytical methods have been used to determine major and trace element composition, respectively. NiS fire Assay using ICP-MS was used to determine Au-PGE contents.Sulfurous rocks are characteristic of strombolian dynamism with dark gray color, vacuolar structure and porphyritic microlithic texture. They are mainly made up of pyroxene, olivine, plagioclase, opaque minerals, quartz and hematite/goethite. The main chemical components of the sulfurous scoria are silicon, aluminum, iron and calcium oxides. They show basanitic composition. The major and trace element distribution reveals that the scoria of Mount Cameroon derived from a common origin. Some samples have negative LOI due to iron oxidation during heating to high temperature that produces weight gains. The high contents in Fe2O3, CaO, Cr, V, Zn, Ni, Cu, Co and light REE in addition to low SiO2 concentration confirm the basic nature of the magma. In these rocks, CaO is associated with Zn, Ba, Ga, Zr, Nb and Rb in plagioclase and/or pyroxene. The (La/Yb)N values and LREE/HREE ratios reveal a REE-fractionation. Some element ratios (Zr/Th, Th/U, Nb/Y and Zr/Nb) indicate crustal contamination.Platinum-group elements (PGEs), especially iridium and platinum-group elements (IPGE: Os, Ir, Ru), have low contents. Au-PGE budget was controlled by a single or a combination of petrological processes which affected the rocks in a similar manner at Mount Cameroon. The sulfurous nature that favors Au enrichment is not responsible for the contents in PGEs. The IPGE depletion, relative to palladium and platinum-group elements (PPGE: Pd, Pt, Rh) enrichment as well as negative Ru-anomalies could be attributed to the nature of the mantle. Contrary to REE, PGEs are associated with CaO (positive correlation) but not with K2O and P2O5 (negative correlation).

Dietary Diversity and Its Contribution in the Etiology of Maternal Anemia in Conflict Hit Mount Cameroon Area: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: In the Mount Cameroon area, maternal anemia remains a major public health concern. We hypothesized that nutrient inadequacy may account for the level of anemia in pregnancy. Thus, this study examined the relative effect of dietary diversity on maternal anemia in the study area.Methods: A total of 1,014 consenting pregnant women were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Information on socio-demographic, antenatal characteristics, malaria and anemia control measures were documented. Dietary diversity (DD) was evaluated using the 24-h recall method and hemoglobin (Hb) levels (g/dl) measured using a portable Hb meter. Malaria parasitaemia was diagnosed by blood microscopy. Anemia status was trimester specific. Logistic regression analysis was used determine predictors of maternal anemia.Results: Among the pregnant women enrolled, the mean DD score was 3.5±0.8 SD and only 10.4% had adequate dietary diversity. Anemia prevalence was 40.9%. Majority of the women consumed starchy staples (99.3%) while least consumed foods were dairy (4.5%), eggs (8.3%), fruits and vegetable (vitamin A-rich) (8.6%). A significant lower prevalence of anemia was associated with intake of dairy (P < 0.001), animal protein (P = 0.006), vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables (P < 0.001). Furthermore, mean Hb levels were higher (P < 0.001) among women with diverse diets (12.39 ± 1.34) than in those with less diverse diets (10.85 ± 1.33). Predictors of anemia were as follows: study setting [Odd Ratio (OR) = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.07-1.94], occupation (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.16-3.43), number of clinic visits (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.27-2.91), trimester of pregnancy (OR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.45-7.38), malaria parasitaemia (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.33-2.68), out of home eating (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.03-2.13), and DD (OR = 9.8, 95% CI: 4.56-20.80). The attributable risk of anemia due to dietary diversity was 82.9%.Conclusion: In the study area, DD is a major risk factor for maternal anemia. This finding underscores the importance of content specific nutrition education during clinic visits to improve intake of protein and iron-rich food in anemia prevention.

The epidemiological status of urogenital schistosomiasis among reproductive aged individuals in the Tiko Health Area- a semi-urban setting in the Mount Cameroon area.

BackgroundUrogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) caused by S. haematobium has enormous reproductive health consequences including infertility. Reproductive aged individuals are a neglected group and not included in control programs in Cameroon. This study investigated the prevalence and severity of S. haematobium infection in the context of gender and socio-economic structures that shape behaviour among reproductive aged individuals living in Tiko, a semi-urban setting, Cameroon.Methodology/Principal findingsA cross-sectional study was carried out in the Tiko Health District (THD) between May to September 2019. Consenting individuals were enrolled using a convenient sampling technique and administered a semi-structured questionnaire to document data on socio-demographic and stream contact behaviour. A urine sample was collected and screened for the presence of S. haematobium ova using reagent strips, filtration and microscopy. The overall prevalence of S. haematobium infection was 22.8% (95% CL: 19.27–26.73) with geometric mean egg load of 18.74 (range: 1–1600) per 10ml of urine. Younger age group (15 – 20years) (OR: 5.13; 95% CL: 1.35–19.42), male (OR: 2.60 3.07; 95% CL: 1.54–4.40) and awareness of UGS (OR: 1.73; 95% CL: 1.02–2.95) were associated with higher odds of exposure to infection. Significantly higher intensity of infection was seen in males, singles and in the age group 15–30 years. It is worth noting that males carried out more activities which entailed longer duration in streams.Conclusion/SignificanceThe prevalence obtained shows that Tiko is a moderate-risk area for UGS with underlying morbidity-inducing infection intensity. The severity of the infection is more in males. Awareness of the disease is not enough to protect these communities from infection, but provision of public infrastructures and health education will limit contact with infested water and thus curtail the infection. There is an urgent need to involve all age groups in control programs.

Annotated checklist of bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) of Mount Cameroon, southwestern Cameroon

Mount Cameroon is a priority area for global biodiversity conservation, considering its high species richness and endemism across many taxa. As of yet, its Chiroptera fauna is still poorly known. Thus this paper aims to provide an updated checklist of the Chiroptera fauna of Mount Cameroon based on our own field data, previously published data and data from museum collections. Details on published references and conservation statuses are also provided for each species. During our field surveys (2016-2018), 613 individuals and 21 species were recorded. Among them three species are new to the area: Mops (Xiphonycteris) nanulus J. A. Allen, 1917, Mops (Xiphonycteris) thersites (Thomas, 1903) and Glauconycteris egeria Thomas, 1913. These new records bring the number of known bat species in the Mount Cameroon area to 38, belonging to seven families. This includes Pteropodidae Gray, 1821 (eleven species), Hipposideridae Gray, 1821 (six species), Rhinolophidae Gray, 1825 (three species), Miniopteridae Dobson, 1875 (three species), Vespertilionidae Gray, 1821 (seven species), Nycteridae Van der Hoeven, 1855 (five species) and Molossidae Gervais, 1856 (three species). We also observe that 23.7% of bats in the area are frugivorous (nine species), 71.1% are insectivorous (27 species) and 5.3% are nectarivorous (two species). Moreover, because of the increasing rate of deforestation in the area caused by slash-and-burn shifting cultivation and expansion of agro-industrial plantations, knowledge of the regional chiropteran fauna is imperative, especially as this information can provide a base for the development of future management and conservation strategies.

Coverage and effectiveness of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy with sulfadoxine\u2013pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) on adverse pregnancy outcomes in the Mount Cameroon area, South West Cameroon

BackgroundGrowing concerns about the waning efficacy of IPTp-SP warrants continuous monitoring and evaluation. This study determined coverage of IPTp-SP and compared the effectiveness of the 3-dose to 2-dose regimen on placental malaria (PM) infection and low birth weight (LBW) in the Mount Cameroon area.MethodsConsenting pregnant women were enrolled consecutively through a cross-sectional survey at delivery at four antenatal clinics, two each from semi-rural and semi-urban settings from November 2016 to December 2017. Reported IPTp-SP use, demographic and antenatal clinic (ANC) data of the mothers and neonate birth weights were documented. Maternal haemoglobin concentration was measured using a haemoglobinometer and PM infection diagnosed by placental blood microscopy. Logistic regression analysis was used to model study outcomes.ResultsAmong the 465 parturient women enrolled, 47.0% (203), 34.7% (150), 18.3% (79) and 7.1% (33) reported uptake of ≥ 3, 2.1 dose(s) and no SP, respectively. Uptake of ≥ 3 doses varied significantly (p < 0.001) according to type of medical facility, timing of ANC initiation and number of ANC visits. The prevalence of PM was 18.5% where uptake of ≥ 3 SP doses (AOR = 2.36: 95% CI 1.41–4.87), primiparity (AOR = 2.13: 95% CI 1.19–3.81), semi-rural setting (AOR = 1.85: 95% CI 1.12–3.04) increased odds of infection. Also, three or more dosing was associated (p < 0.001) with increased PM density notably among women from semi-urban areas. Compared with third trimester, ANC initiation in the second trimester (AOR: 0.39: 95% CI 0.20–0.74) lower odds of infection. The prevalence of LBW infants was 7.3% and were generally those of anaemic (AOR: 4.6: 95% CI 1.03–20.57) and semi-rural (AOR: 5.29: 95% CI 1.73–16.15) women. Although ≥ 3 (AOR: 0.31: 95% CI 0.11–0.87) and 2 (AOR: 0.32: 95% CI 0.11–0.93) doses of SP was associated with lower odds of LBW, ≥ 3 doses were not associated with additional increase in birth weight nor maternal haemoglobin levels when compared with 2 doses.ConclusionIn the Mount Cameroon area, reported uptake of IPTp with ≥ 3 SP doses did not provide observable prophylactic benefits. SP resistance efficacy studies are necessary.

Coverage and usage of insecticide treated nets (ITNs) within households: associated factors and effect on the prevalance of malaria parasitemia in the Mount Cameroon area

BackgroundInsecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are a widely used tool that has been proven to be effective in the prevention and control of malaria in malaria endemic countries. However, usage varies among households and can greatly affect the benefits of ITNs as a control tool for malaria transmission. This study determined the coverage and usage of ITNS as well as associated factors and the effect of coverage and usage on the prevalence of malaria parasitemia within households in the Mount Cameroon area.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted between August and September 2014 in six communities within the Mount Cameroon area. Households within the communities were enrolled through multistage sampling and household survey was done using a structured questionnaire. Capillary blood was collected for malaria parasite determination. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20 for windows. Differences in proportions were assessed using the Chi-square test while factors affecting ITNs usage were assessed in multivariate logistic regression at a statistical significance of P ≤ 0.05.ResultsA total of 504 households were surveyed, 1564 bed spaces reported while 915(58.5, 95% CI: 56.1–60.9) of the bed spaces had nets and 391(77.6, 95% CI, 74.0–80.2) of the households had at least one bed net. The odds of using ITNs was 2 folds higher (OR = 2.41; 95% CI 1.58–3.69 p = 0.001) and 3 folds higher (OR = 3.149, 95% CI 1.53–6.47 p = 0.002) among houses with 5 to 9 occupants and above 10 occupants respectively when compared to houses with less than 5 occupants. In addition, Individuals living in cement block houses were less likely to use ITNs.Compared to those living in wooden houses (OR = 0.488, 95% CI: 0.269–0.885; p = 0 .018). Rural communities had lower ITN coverage compared to semi-urban communities (p = 0.0001). Increase in ITNs coverage significantly reduces malaria prevalence (correlation − 0.899, p = 0.015).ConclusionDespite the efforts made to scale up ITN distribution so that universal coverage can be attained, coverage remains low. Increasing coverage and putting in place a mechanism to replace torn nets will go a long way reduce the prevalence of malaria parasitemia.

Influence of infant feeding practices on the occurrence of malnutrition, malaria and anaemia in children ≤5 years in the Mount Cameroon area: A cross sectional study.

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different infant feeding habits on the occurrence of malnutrition, Plasmodium falciparum parasitaemia and anaemia in children ≤5 years in the Mount Cameroon area.MethodologyA total of 1227 children ≤5 years of age were recruited in a descriptive cross-sectional study. Socio demographic data and information on the different infant feeding habits was obtained by the use of semi-structured questionnaire. Nutritional status was assessed by the use of anthropometric measurements. Plasmodium was detected by light microscopy and haemoglobin was measured by use of an auto-haematology analyser. Anaemia as well as its severity was classified based on WHO standards. The associations between variables were assessed using logistic regression analysis.ResultsThe prevalence of exclusive breast feeding (EBF) was 22.6%, mixed feeding (MF) was 60.1% and those not breastfed (NBF) at all was 17.3%. The prevalence of malnutrition, P. falciparum parasitaemia and anaemia was 32.6%, 30.4% and 77.3% respectively. Children who had EBF had significantly lower (P <0.001) prevalence of malaria parasite (16.2%) than those NBF at all (61.3%). The prevalence of anaemia was significantly higher (P <0.001) in children who had MF (80.5%) while, severe and moderate anaemia was highest in those NBF at all (6.6%, 67.1% respectively; P = 0.029) than their counterparts. The significant predictors of anaemia were age group (P <0.001), marital status (P <0.001) and educational level of parent (P <0.001), that for malaria parasitaemia was infant feeding habit (MF: P< 0.001 and NBF: P <0.001) and malnutrition was age group (≤2 years: P <0.008 and 2.1–4.0 years: P = 0.028).ConclusionThe infant feeding habit significantly influenced the occurrence of malaria parasite infection and not malnutrition and anaemia, hence EBF should be encouraged in malaria endemic zones.

Concurrence of CareStart\u2122 Malaria HRP2 RDT with microscopy in population screening for Plasmodium falciparum infection in the Mount Cameroon area: predictors for RDT positivity

BackgroundMalaria remains a diagnostic challenge in many endemic communities. Although rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are presently widely used for malaria diagnosis, there is a dearth of information on post-marketing surveillance on its efficacy in Cameroon. The present study evaluated the performance characteristics of CareStart™ Malaria HRP2 (histidine-rich protein 2) antigen (Ag) RDT in diagnosing Plasmodium falciparum infection in the Mount Cameroon area and predictors associated with RDT positivity.MethodsThe CareStart™ Malaria HRP2 Plasmodium falciparum (G0141) Ag RDT was evaluated in a cross-sectional community-based survey involving 491 children of both sexes aged 6 months to 14 years between April and May 2018. Malaria parasitaemia was confirmed by light microscopy. Sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values of the RDT, and the corresponding accuracy and Kappa value (κ) were determined using microscopy as the gold standard. Haemoglobin (Hb) concentration was obtained using an auto-haematology analyser. Results were compared using the chi-square test and associations between predictor variables, and RDT results were assessed using logistic regression analysis.ResultsMicroscopically confirmed malaria parasite prevalence was 27.7%, and geometric mean density was 187 parasites/μL of blood (range 70–1162). Se, Sp, PPV, NPV and accuracy were 82.4, 76.6, 57.4, 91.9 and 78.2%, respectively. Sensitivity depended on parasitaemia and reached 96.1% at densities ≥ 200 parasites/μL of blood. The accuracy of malaria parasitaemia (as assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve) to predict malaria by RDT was 75.4% (95% CI 70.6–80.1). The agreement between microscopy and RDT was moderate (κ = 0.52). RDT positivity was significantly associated with fever (P < 0.001), children less than 5 years (P = 0.02), history of fever within a month (P < 0.001) and anaemia (P = 0.002).ConclusionThe overall concurrence of CareStart™ Malaria HRP2 pf Ag RDT with microscopy in the detection of P. falciparum infection is moderate and is most useful at parasitaemia ≥ 200 parasites/μL of blood and presentation with fever. While RDT is effective as a diagnostic test for confirmation of clinical cases of malaria, its applications in population screening with a higher proportion of asymptomatic cases are limited.

Something is missing at the bottom: Importance of coastal rainforests for conservation of trees, birds and butterflies in the Mount Cameroon area

Something is missing at the bottom: Importance of coastal rainforests for conservation of trees, birds and butterflies in the Mount Cameroon area