Serological investigation of visceral Leishmania infection in human and its associated risk factors in Welkait District, Western Tigray, Ethiopia

Parasite Epidemiology and Control
Abrha BsratAbraham Aseffa

Abstract

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is major neglected public health problem in terms of geographical spread and incidence in Ethiopia. Magnitude, public health impact and dynamics of VL were not well studied in Welkait District, Western Tigray, though the area is known for VL. Hence, this study aimed to determine sero-prevalence of human VL and associated risk factors in Welkait as new foci. A cross sectional study design was employed in this study. Two stage stratified random sampling method was used to select study participants. Hence, a total of 329 human study participants were included for serological survey using ITleish and leishmanin skin tests. Semi structured questionnaire was also used to identify VL associated risk factors. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression statistical methods were used to determine the degree of association. The overall sero-prevalence of human VL in the study area was found to be 8.81%. Statistical significant difference in the prevalence of the disease was found among Sub-districts, sex, re-settlement, sleeping outdoor and dog ownership (P < 0.05). Participants who resettled from their original place were found 2 times (AOR = 2.143; 95% CI = 1.02, 14.20) more vulnerable to VL infection. Th...Continue Reading

Citations

Feb 14, 2019·PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases·Angela J ToeppChristine A Petersen
May 8, 2019·Parasites & Vectors·Getachew AlebieDagimawie Tadesse
Oct 7, 2020·Pathogens·Ahyun HongMaria Fernanda Laranjeira-Silva
Nov 11, 2020·Infectious Diseases and Therapy·Mekonnen HaftomAlem Gebremariam

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