ABSTRACT
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now recognized as one of the most serious global threats to human health in the 21st century. This study is set out to investigate the resistance pattern of Enterobacterales from clinical isolates in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria. Three hundred and twenty isolates of Enterobacterales were isolated from different clinical samples and identified using the Analytical Profile Index 20E. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, and the antibiotics tested include Augmentin, Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, Ceftazidime, Cefepime, Penicillin G, Amikacin, Meropenem, Cotrimoxazole and Gentamicin. Classification into multi drug resistance (MDR), Extensive drug resistance (XDR) and Pan drug resistance (PDR) was done using the international expert proposal for interim standard definitions for acquired resistance. Data was analyzed using statistical package for social sciences v23. Escherichia coli 165 (51.6%) was the most often isolated bacterium, followed in that other by Klebsiella pneumoniae 93 (29.1%). The highest level of resistance was observed in Co-trimoxazole 278 (86.9%), while the least was observed in Meropenem 49 (15.3%). Amikacin 92 (28.7%), Augmentin 178 (55.6%), Ceftriaxone 164 (51.4%), Ceftazidime 187 (58.4%), Gentamicin 192 (60.0%), Cefepime 113 (35.3%), Ciprofloxacin 120 (43.8%), and Penicillin G 278 (86.9%). Multi drug, Extensive drug and Pan drug resistance accounts for 80.3%, 11.9% and 4.0% respectively. The prevalence of the quinolone resistance gene was found to be 5.3%. This study addressed some key knowledge gaps as pertains to antibiotic sensitivity and resistance patterns in our region, making a significant contribution towards filling the global resistance map.

ABSTRACT
Background: Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium infection that is a risk factor for Peptic Ulcer Disease, and affected individuals remain asymptomatic until they present with complications. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and risk factors of Helicobacter pylori infection among patients with Peptic Ulcer Disease undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional analytical Hospital-based study where a quantitative approach was used. A total of 149 patients with a Peptic Ulcer Disease with the age of ≥ of 18years were recruited at Benjamin Mkapa Tertiary and Teaching Hospital between February and April 2020. Demographic and clinical characteristics were captured by using a standard questionnaire. The patients’ association characteristics were tested by using the X2 with the corresponding p-value and risk factors measured by logistic regression, a p-value of<0.05 considered significant for the study at a 95%CI. Helicobacter pylori infection was detected using a monoclonal antigen test. Results: The overall prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in the study was 49.66 %. H. pylori infection was associated with age ≥60years (AOR=5.46, 95%CI (1.77-16.86) p-value=0.0032), Use of unsafe drinking water (AOR=2.51, 95%CI (1.11-6.22) p-value 0.0255). NSAID user (AOR=3.16, 95%CI (1.10-9.11) p-value 0.0330). Relatives with PUD (AOR=2.46, 95%CI (1.08-5.62) p-value 0.0323). Conclusion: The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection was found to be relatively high in this study. Helicobacter pylori infection was significantly associated with an increase in age, low level of education, unsafe water, Relatives with PUD, and the use of NSAIDS.

ABSTRACT
Background & Objective: Schistosomiasis remains a public health problem, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The disease is closely linked to poverty and environmental factors. Populations who are highly exposed to the fresh water of Cayo Lake on a daily basis are likely to sustain the transmission of the disease. It is therefore necessary to investigate their frequencies in order to combat the perpetuation of schistosomiasis. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out in August 2024 around Lac Cayo, among the inhabitants of Sandza and Tchianda in the urban community of TChiamba Nzassi in Pointe Noire. Schistosoma haematobium was systematically tested in urine samples. Results: This study revealed a 13.6% prevalence of bilharziasis among the 110 individuals tested. The frequency of Schistosomiasis in SANDZA was 05(11.10%) positive out of 45 screened, and 10(15.40%) positive out of 65 screened in Tchianda. Conclusion: Populations living along the shores of Lac Cayo are exposed to and maintain Schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma haematobium.

ABSTRACT
Trichinellosis is a serious zoonotic disease with worldwide distribution caused by parasitic nematodes of the genus Trichinella. If not well managed, this can lead to complications and death. Data in Burkina Faso are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the seroprevalence and risk factors of Trichinella infection in Burkina Faso. This was a cross-sectional study where pregnant women attending antenatal care were enrolled after signature of an informed consent. Serum samples of 418 pregnant women were collected and stored at the Clinical Research Unit of Nanoro. Anti-Trichinella spiralis IgG Human ELISA Kit was used to test the samples at the Luxembourg Institute of Health. Anthropometric, clinical and socio-demographic data were collected using a structured questionnaire and Chi-square and Student t-tests were used to compare groups. The p-value significance threshold was set at 0.05. Overall, the seroprevalence of Trichinellosis was 2.4% (10/418). The baseline characteristics analysis showed associations between Trichinella seropositive pregnant women and factors such as body mass index (BMI) and gravidity. Individuals identified as Trichinella seropositive were not previously diagnosed and have not been treated for Trichinella infection with any specific therapy. A low seroprevalence of Trichinella infection was found in our study area. Efforts for continuous education in trichinellosis prevention are necessary.

ABSTRACT
Introduction: Hydatidosis is a cosmopolitan parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. While the liver and lungs are the most affected organs, involvement of other sites is less frequent. Hydatidosis developing within the subcutaneous or muscular tissue is an exceedingly rare occurrence. Materials and Methods: Case 1: A 56-year-old female presented with a left basithoracic tumor infiltrating between the internal and external oblique muscles on MRI. Hydatid serology were negative, but the diagnosis of muscular hydatidosis was strongly suspected based on clinical and radiological evidence. The patient underwent total pericystectomy, with no recurrence at one-year follow-up. Case 2: A 85-year-old female was referred to our hospital for an asymptomatic soft tissue tumor located in the root of the right thigh, progressing for 3 years and measuring 11cm. Ultrasound and MRI, revealed an encapsulated lesion exhibiting both cystic and tissue components with multiple compartments. The patient underwent complete surgical excision, and histopathological-exam confirmed the diagnosis. No postoperative medical treatment was administered, and there was no recurrence after a 4-year follow-up. Discussion: The frequency of muscular hydatid cysts varies from 1 to 5.4% of all hydatid locations. Muscular hydatid cysts pose challenges in detection through serological tests, but a positive result provides diagnostic certainty. Ultrasound is the imaging modality of choice, MRI is recommended for cases where uncertainty persists and for local-regional evaluation. The primary treatment for muscular hydatidosis is surgical. The use of medical treatment with Albendazole remains highly controversial. Long-term patient follow-up is crucial to detect any local or distant recurrence. Conclusion: In the presence of any subcutaneous or muscular mass in a patient residing or having resided in an endemic area, the diagnosis of muscular hydatid cyst should be considered,

ABSTRACT
Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are a major health concern for children in developing countries. This study assesses the prevalence and intensity of STHs among pupils in private nursery and primary schools in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Methods: The study was conducted in Ife Central LGA, Osun State, Nigeria, involving preschool and school-aged children from two private schools. A total of 55 samples, from 22 male and 33 female pupils, were analyzed for intestinal parasite ova to determine the prevalence of helminth infections among the children. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institute of Public Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Consent was secured from parents or guardians. Samples were processed using the modified Kato-Katz technique and examined microscopically for soil-transmitted helminth (STH) eggs. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Among the 55 fecal samples collected, the overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections was 78.2%. Ascaris lumbricoides were the most prevalent helminth (76.4%), followed by Trichuris trichiuria (14.5%) and hookworms (5.5%). Females had a higher infection rate (81.8%) than males (68.2%). The prevalence of STH infections was highest among pupils aged ≥10 years (81.8%) and lowest among those aged 2-3 years (66.7%). Conclusion: This study highlights a significant burden of STH infections, particularly A. lumbricoides, among schoolchildren in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The high prevalence necessitates targeted deworming and improved sanitation interventions to reduce the burden of these infections among children in this region.

ABSTRACT
Gisrdiasis in the elderly is a very complicated condition. Comorbidities have a major influence on the course, management, and outcomes of giardiasis in elderly individuals. Immunologic, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, renal and gastrointestinal disorders, neurological and respiratory ailment, and nutritional deficits all interact with giardiasis, resulting in severe clinical symptoms and additional difficult therapy. A complete, multidisciplinary approach is required for the efficient management of giardiasis in elderly patients with comorbidities, with an emphasis on personalised medications, supportive care, and preventative initiatives.