Abstract

The seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the causative agents of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes (AIDS), was investigated from January 2008 to June 2008. Three hundred and sixteen (316) blood samples were screened presumptively for presence of HIV-1 and HIV-2 using a third generation ELISA kit called “Determine”. Out of the 316 samples screened, immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies to HIV were found present in 108 (34.2%) patients of which 40(12.7%) were males and 68(21.5%) were females. The prevalence of HIV infection in the study population was 34.2% and the prevalence of the viral infection in relation to sex was 39.2% for males and 31.8% for females. The prevalence of viral infection also varied with the highest prevalence rate recorded in age group 31–45 years with 43 (13.6%) while the age group 1-15 years had the lowest percentage positivity with 5 (1.58%). The findings of this study emphasize the more urgent need for intervention measures like sex education, health education and preventive education among the general populace.

Key words: AIDS, seropositivity, seroprevalence, HIV, Uyo