The impact of socioeconomic and environmental conditions on typhoid fever prevalence In Bauchi North, Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abstract

Typhoid fever remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas, where poor sanitation, inadequate access to potable water, and low socioeconomic conditions contribute to its persistence. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of typhoid fever and identify key socioeconomic, environmental, and hygiene-related risk factors associated with its transmission. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Extreme Hospital, Azare, Bauchi State, Nigeria. A total of 205 patients presenting with clinical symptoms of typhoid fever were enrolled. Blood samples were collected and tested using the Widal slide agglutination test. Additionally, structured questionnaires were used to gather demographic data and information on potential risk factors. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. The overall prevalence of typhoid fever was 45.36%, with a higher prevalence among females (25.36%) compared to males (20.00%). The highest prevalence
(29.36%) was recorded among adults aged 25–64 years, while no cases were observed among individuals aged 65 and above. Rural dwellers exhibited a significantly higher prevalence (30.73%) than urban residents (14.63%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that patients from rural areas, low- and middle-income backgrounds, and those practising poor sanitation were at significantly higher risk of infection. The high burden of typhoid fever in Bauchi North highlighted the need for targeted public health interventions. Improvements in water treatment, sanitation, and hygiene practices, alongside community health education, are critical to reducing infection rates.