ZIKA VIRUS AND MALARIA PARASITE INFECTIONS IN FEBRILE PATIENTS’ ATTENDEES AT PLATEAU SPECIALIST HOSPITAL, JOS, NIGERIA

Abstract

Febrile illnesses caused by mosquito-borne pathogens such as Zika virus (ZIKV) and Plasmodium falciparum remain a significant public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where surveillance for arboviral infections is limited. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of ZIKV and malaria parasite infections among febrile patients attending Plateau Specialist Hospital, Jos, Nigeria. A total of 100 febrile patients were enrolled in this study. Serum and Blood samples were screened for anti-ZIKV IgG/M and Plasmodium falciparum antigen, respectively, using rapid diagnostic test kits. Socio-demographic and risk factors were also assessed through structured questionnaires. Out of the 100 participants, 3 (3.0%) tested positive for anti-ZIKV IgG, while 0.0% tested positive for anti-ZIKV IgM. Plasmodium falciparum antigen was detected in 17 (17.0%) of the patients. Socio-demographic variables such as sex, occupation, marital status, and educational level revealed the distribution of disease burden and were statistically significantly associated with ZIKV and malaria infections. Similarly, environmental and behavioral factors, including the use of mosquito nets, the application of insecticides, and the presence of stagnant water around the home, were significantly associated with ZIKV and malaria infections (p < 0.05). The low seroprevalence of ZIKV antibodies and the relatively high prevalence of P. falciparum highlight the continued endemicity of malaria in Nigeria. Furthermore, the presence of ZIKV antibodies signals the need for enhanced arboviral surveillance. Vector control measures and improved public health education remain critical in reducing the burden of mosquito-borne diseases in Nigeria.