Probing the Seroprevalence of HIV infection Among Persons Attending Healthcare Facilities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria During 2022–2023

Background: This study was aimed at determining the seroprevalence of HIV infection among persons attending healthcare facilities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. The ascertainment of prevalence of HIV infections is important in the formulation of policies and strategies, aimed at the protection of healthcare workers from HIV and other infections due to occupational hazards. This study will contribute in filling the gap created by inadequacy of Data on HIV in Nigeria and sub Saharan Africa.

Methodology: This study involved a review of the medical laboratory records of 345 persons comprising 167 males and 178 females who attended public and private healthcare facilities in Port Harcourt between January 2022 to December, 2023. The inclusion criteria provided for the review of the records of only persons who reside within Port Harcourt metropolis, and within the study period, conducted serological laboratory investigations for HIV 1/2 antibodies at Diagnostix and Scientifique Laboratories, Port Harcourt. Included in the study were records of persons who conducted HIV tests within the study period and have complete records of the results and relevant sociodemographic parameters. Persons who were not resident in Port Harcourt or did not perform the HIV tests and those with incomplete records were excluded.

Results: The overall prevalence of HIV in this study population was 14.5%. Within the age brackets, the highest prevalence of 26.0% was found with the 26-30 age bracket, while the least was 7.0% among the 41–45-year-old age brackets. The males had a prevalence of 12.6%; and the females (16.3%). The residents of low-density areas recorded a prevalence of 12.1%, while those living in high density areas had 15.7%; the persons who attended public healthcare facilities had a prevalence of 14.8%, while those who went to private healthcare facilities had 14.4%.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of HIV among persons attending healthcare facilities makes imperative the implementation of stringent measures for prevention and control measures to safeguard the lives of healthcare workers.