Bacterial aetiologic agents associated with upper respiratory tract infections in children (under five years) attending selected clinics in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: To identify the bacterial agents associated with upper respiratory tract infections in children less than five years old in Jos, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: Throat swabs were collected from a total of 200 children reporting at four (4) hospitals/clinics: Paediatric Units of OLA and Evangel hospitals and Primary Health Care clinics in Nassarawa and Jos Township with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections (Pharyngitis, sinusitis, epiglotitis, laryngotracheitis etc).They were examined for bacterial pathogens using standard microscopy and culture.

Results: One hundred and forty nine (74.5%) subjects harboured bacterial pathogens. The age group 0-5 months accounted for the highest number of isolates, 33(16.5%) while the age group 54-59 months and 45-53 months accounted for the least number 3(1.5%) each. Five bacterial species were identified; Streptococcus pneumoniae 75, (37.31%) had the highest frequency of occurrence while Corynebacterium species with 7 (3.48%) had the least occurrence. Others are Moraxella catarrhalis 67 (33.33%), Staphylococcus aureus 31(14.42%) and Streptococcus pyogenes 21(10.45%).

Conclusion: The study showed that bacteria were associated with most upper respiratory tract infections. Routine bacterial culture should be considered when children present with upper respiratory tract infections and the accompanying symptoms.

Keywords: respiratory tract, bacterial pathogens, throat swabs, children.

Highland Medical Research Journal Vol. 4(1) 2006: 22-30