Prevalence of malaria and trypanosomiasis among blood donors attending Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano-Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Transfusion-based screenings predominantly focuses on viruses, often overlooking parasites, particularly in developing  countries. This oversight raises concerns about the potential presence of parasitic diseases in donors’ blood.

Aim: This study primarily aimed to investigate the prevalence of malaria and trypanosomiasis among blood donors in the study area.

Methodology: The methodology involved collecting blood samples and preparing both thin and thick blood films on clean, grease-free  slides for parasite identification using microscopic technique.

Results: The results indicated a significant prevalence of malaria in 13 cases (8.6%), while no instances of trypanosomiasis were detected  (0%). Furthermore, the data revealed that the proportion of malaria parasitemia was higher in male donors 69.2% (9/13) compared to  female donors 30.8% (4/13). With regards to age groups, the malaria severity revealed: 7.7% in ages 18-20, 23.1% in 21-30, 30.8% in 31-40,  15.4% in 41-50, and 23.1% in 51-60. Notably, the 31-40 age group exhibited the highest prevalence at 30.8%.

Conclusion: These findings  underscore the necessity for comprehensive parasitic screening in blood transfusions, especially in regions where malaria is prevalent. Enhancing blood safety protocols to include parasitic detection can significantly reduce the risk of passive disease transmission through  blood donation.