Incidence and Demographic Distribution of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in BIU, Borno State- Nigeria

Abstract

The growing concern over the increasing epidemics of HIV/AIDS in the country as well as the non quantified disease burden in Biu, Borno State necessitated this study, which established the incidence and demography factors associated with the disease using a survey conducted between July and December, 2010. A total of 487 sera collected from patients attending Abott Medical Centre were screened using rapid Chromatographic immunoassay and the concurrent administration of structured questionnaires during specimen collection were analysed. Out of the total patients screened, 201 (41.3%) were HIV positive, 63 (13.3%) were men, 138 (68.7%) were females and the highest infection rate (46.8%) occurred in patients between age 21 and 40. These age and sex distribution was statistically significant (P> 0.01) by Chi-square test. This finding confirm endemicity of HIV and the associated social, economic and cultural factors contributing to the spread of HIV which identified socio-professional, marital types and levels of education as most significant attributes. Active surveillance through HIV counselling, screening and testing of all patients visiting any health centre should be intensified, in addition to empowering women to negotiate for safer sex.

Keywords: Incidence, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Chromatographic immunoassay, demography, Biu, Borno State

Nigerian Journal of Parasitology, Vol. 32 [2] September 2011, pp. 235-238