Prevalence of hepatitis A virus infection and typhoid fever among febrile patients presenting with gastroenteritis in Ahmadu Bello University Medical Centre, Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract

Acute gastroenteritis and febrile illnesses are major health concerns in low- and middle-income countries, where gut and liver infections often share similar symptoms. The overlap of symptoms like fever, headache, and gastrointestinal issues common in hepatitis A virus (HAV) infections, typhoid fever, malaria, and viral hemorrhagic fevers creates a real diagnostic challenge. The current study looked into the prevalence of recent HAV infection and typhoid fever among febrile patients with gastroenteritis at Ahmadu Bello University Medical Centre. Exactly 100 patients of various ages who presented with fever and gastrointestinal symptoms were recruited. Socio-demographic details and clinical information were gathered through a structured questionnaire. Three millilitres of venous blood collected aseptically from each participant were screened for HAV and typhoid using a rapid diagnostic test, and Widal slide agglutination technique, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using the Pearson Chi-square test at a 95% confidence level, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results showed no cases of HAV infection among the participants. However, 76% of samples tested positive for typhoid fever. The occurrence of typhoid fever was significantly associated with the highest level of education of the participants. A significant relationship was also observed between typhoid fever and type of toilet facility, with higher prevalence among individuals using water-closet facilities. The result indicates a high prevalence of typhoid fever in the study area and underscores the urgent need for improved sanitation infrastructure, better hygiene practices, and strengthened preventive and control measures to reduce the burden of enteric infections in the region.