Sero-prevalence of HIV-1 among commercial motorcyclist (okada riders) in Abuja.

Abstract

Africa remains the global epicentre of the AIDS pandemic and many Africa countries are experiencing generalized epidemics. This means that HIV is spreading throughout the general population, rather than being confined to populations at higher risk. Three hundred and seventy nine commercial motorcyclists (Okada riders) whose age range from 16 and 50 years (mean 33 years) were randomly recruited and tested for HIV-1 antibody. They were counselled and all consented to participate in the study. 5ml blood was collected into EDTA vacutainers and plasma was separated and tested for HIV antibody. Out of 379 samples tested 32 (8.7%) were HIV-1 antibody positive. The prevalence of HIV-1 among Okada riders in Abuja was statistically significantly at 99% significant level (P<0.01) and degree of freedom (n-1). This study has shown that there are sub-epidemics of HIV infection in Abuja and people with high risk behaviours may be fanning the epidemics. Therefore, good and effective control measures must be put in place.

Keywords: Sero-prevalence, HIV/AIDS, High risk, Surveillance.

JOPAT Vol. 12 2007: pp.39-43