Trends and Demographic Distribution of Typhoid Fever in Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract

Typhoid fever is a significant cause of illness and death especially among children and young adults in developing countries due to poor sanitation and unsafe food and water supply particularly where the water is contaminated by human feaces. This study aimed at analysing the prevalence of typhoid fever in Kano State with a view to identifying the predisposing factors. Hospital records for the 2006-2015 were obtained from thirty-one general hospitals and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. Tables and graphs were used to show trend and demographic determinants of the disease. The monthly trend reveals that typhoid fever is endemic in the state throughout the year with three peaks observed in the months of May, August and October. It also showed a significant upward trend from 2006 to 2015. The demographic distribution showed a decline in prevalence with increase in age after reaching its peak in age group 15-19. The study observed that the disease is more common between ages 0-29, accounting for 69.9% of the total reported cases. The disease infects the female gender more than the male with the prevalence in the former accounting for 51.5% and the later 48.5%. The study recommends frequent vaccination, provision of clean and portable water, sustained hygienic eating and drinking habits as well as hygienic practices at home and outside homes as measures for addressing the problem.