Prevalence and predictors of urinary tract infection and severe malaria among febrile children attending Makongoro health centre in Mwanza city, North-Western Tanzania

Bacterial profiles, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, and associated factors of symptomatic urinary tract infections among symptomatic university students at Haramaya University, Eastern Ethiopia: Cross-sectional study

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a highly prevalent infection that can affect individuals of all ages, posing a significant risk to global health in terms of both morbidity and mortality. The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria adds to the complexity of this public health issue. There is limited data on the current study area. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the bacterial profiles, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, and associated factors of UTIs among symptomatic university students at Haramaya University, Eastern Ethiopia from May 10 to June 15, 2021. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 281 Haramaya University students. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Ten to 15 mL of midstream urine samples were collected aseptically from patients. Standard microbiological techniques were used for bacterial identifications and drug susceptibility testing. The association between dependent and independent variables was determined by the logistics regression model. Variables with a P-value of <.05 were considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of UTI among university students was 18.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 13.5-23.1). The most frequently isolated bacteria were Escherichia coli (33.3%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (29.4%). Gram-negative bacteria demonstrated high resistance against ceftazidime (100%), penicillin (96%), ampicillin (92%), and tetracycline (71%). Similarly, gram-positive bacteria exhibited significant resistance to ceftazidime (100%) and ampicillin (81%). Multidrug-resistant isolates constituted an overall prevalence of 35 (68.6%) (95% CI: 63.6-73.6). Furthermore, year of study (adjusted odds ratios [AOR] = 2.66; 95% CI: 1.23-5.76), history of UTI (AOR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.10-6.00), and sexual activity (AOR = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.02-0.39) were identified as factors. In this study, university students exhibited a higher prevalence of UTI compared to previous studies conducted in Africa. The most commonly identified bacteria causing UTIs were E coli, followed by S epidermidis. Factors such as the year of the study, presence of flank pain, history of previous UTIs, and frequency of sexual activity were found to be associated with UTIs. All the isolates have acquired resistance to the majority of commonly prescribed antibiotics. It is crucial to regularly monitor UTIs and the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria among university students.

Bacterial aetiology, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and factors associated with urinary tract infection among under-five children at primary health facility, North-Western Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are common in under-five children, with significant consequences leading to bacteremia, dehydration, kidney scarring, and renal failure. The incidence of UTI varies with patients' demographics and geographic location. Limited studies have addressed UTI issues, particularly in children. We determined the proportion of UTI, bacterial aetiology, and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and associated factors among under-five children at the district hospital between March and April 2023.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study using a convenient non-probability sampling technique to collect urine samples from participants with signs and symptoms of UTI. Written informed consent was obtained from parents or guardians. We collected Participants' information using a pretested structured questionnaire. Urine samples were processed at the Regional Referral Hospital. All analyses were conducted using STATA version 15.0. We determined the factors associated with UTI using a modified Poisson model multivariable analysis of the modified Poisson model. The results were presented as a prevalence ratio and 95% confidence interval. The level of significance was specified at 0.05.

RESULT

The study recruited 368 under-five children; 194 (52.7%) were males, and the median age (interquartile range) was 24 (13-36) months. Of all, 28.8% (95% CI-24.3-33.6) had culture-confirmed UTI. One hundred and six pathogens were isolated, the majority being Escherichia coli (E. coli), 37 (34.9%), and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), 26 (24.5%). The susceptibility of E. coli to cefepime, piperacillin-tazobactam, nitrofurantoin, and meropenem ranged from 81.1% to 97.3%. S. aureus was most susceptible to nitrofurantoin (96.2%) and ciprofloxacin (92.3%). Multidrug resistance was observed in 33.0% of isolates. The proportion of Methicillin-resistant S. aureus and extended-spectrum beta-lactamases was 23.1% and 25%, respectively. UTI was observed more in patients presenting with vomiting, dysuria, and abdominal pain, patients below 24 months of age, nappy users, and uncircumcised males.

CONCLUSION

Our study found a relatively high proportion of UTI among under-five children associated with vomiting, dysuria, abdominal pain, nappy use, and uncircumcision in males. The pathogens were least susceptible to (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, gentamycin, ampicillin, and penicillin) the commonly used antibiotic. We advocate a thorough clinical analysis to detect the predictors of UTI and a periodic review of empirical treatment of UTI based on the antibiotic susceptibility pattern.

Prevalence of urinary tract infection and antimicrobial resistance patterns of uropathogens with biofilm forming capacity among outpatients in morogoro, Tanzania: a cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the second most common infectious disease affecting more than 150 million people globally annually. Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC), the predominant cause of UTI, can occur as a biofilm associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR). There is a data gap on global AMR patterns from low-income settings, including Tanzania. Data on antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in relation to biofilm formation will help in the proper selection of antibiotics and the fight against AMR.

METHODS

This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among consecutively selected outpatients (n = 344) from January to May 2022 at Morogoro Regional Referal Hospital. Mid-stream urine samples were collected aseptically from symptomatic patients. A significant UTI was defined when more than 105 colonies/ml of urine were recorded. Kirby Bauer's disc diffusion method was used for antibiotics susceptibility patterns and a Congo Red Agar method was used to determine biofilm formation. Two-sided χ2 test or Fisher's exact test, Cohen's kappa coefficient and logistic regression were used for data analysis. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The prevalence of UTIs was 41% (141/344) and elders (>=60 years) had five times higher odds of having UTI as compared to adolescents (p < 0.001). E. coli was the most predominant bacteria (47%; 66/141), which displayed moderate susceptibility against ciprofloxacin (59.1%) and nitrofurantoin (57.6%). A total of 72 (51%) of all isolated bacteria were multi-drug resistant. All isolated bacteria demonstrated high resistance (> 85%) against ampicillin and co-trimoxazole. In this study, 51.5% (34/66) were biofilm-forming E. coli and demonstrated relatively higher antibiotic resistance as compared to non-biofilm forming bacteria (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

We report high antibiotic resistance against commonly used antibiotics. Slightly more than half of the isolated bacteria were biofilm forming E. coli. A need to strengthen stewardship programs is urgently advocated.

Molecular Characterizations of the Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci Species Causing Urinary Tract Infection in Tanzania: A Laboratory-Based Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

There is a growing body of evidence on the potential involvement of coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS) in causing urinary tract infections (UTIs). The aim of this study was to delineate virulence potential, antimicrobial resistance genes, and sequence types of CoNS isolated from patients with UTI symptoms and pyuria in Tanzania.

METHODS

CoNS from patients with UTI symptoms and more than 125 leucocytes/μL were retrieved, subcultured, and whole-genome sequenced.

RESULTS

Out of 65 CoNS isolates, 8 species of CoNS were identified; Staphylococcus haemolyticus, n = 27 (41.5%), and Staphylococcus epidermidis, n = 24 (36.9%), were predominant. The majority of S. haemolyticus were sequence type (ST) 30, with 8 new ST138-145 reported, while the majority of S. epidermidis were typed as ST490 with 7 new ST1184-1190 reported. Sixty isolates (92.3%) had either one or multiple antimicrobial resistance genes. The most frequently detected resistance genes were 53 (21%) dfrG, 32 (12.9%) blaZ, and 26 (10.5%) mecA genes conferring resistance to trimethoprim, penicillin, and methicillin, respectively. Out of 65 isolates, 59 (90.8%) had virulence genes associated with UTI, with a predominance of the icaC 47 (46.5%) and icaA 14 (13.9%) genes. Conclusion:S. haemolyticus and S. epidermidis harboring icaC, dfrG, blaZ, and mecA genes were the predominant CoNS causing UTI in Tanzania. Laboratories should carefully interpret the significant bacteriuria due to CoNS in relation to UTI symptoms and pyuria before labeling them as contaminants. Follow-up studies to document the outcome of the treated patients is needed to add more evidence that CoNS are UTI pathogens.

The Prevalence of Malaria and Bacteremia Co-Infections among Febrile Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Comprehensive data on the relative contribution of bacteremia to malaria outcomes in a large number of participants are lacking. Therefore, we collated data on the co-existence of malaria and bacteremia in the literature to provide evidence-based information for future studies investigating the clinical significance of this co-infection. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021287971). Relevant studies were identified from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. The pooled prevalence of (1) co-existent malaria and bacteremia among febrile patients, (2) the pooled prevalence of bacteremia among patients with malaria, (3) the probability of co-infection, and (4) the pooled prevalence of deaths were estimated by the random-effects model. Fifty-one studies involving 1583 cases of co-infection were included in the analyses. Typhoidal Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus were the most common Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, respectively. The prevalence of co-existent malaria and bacteremia among febrile patients was 1.9% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.5–2.2%, I² = 96.64%, 31 studies). The prevalence of bacteremia among patients with malaria was 7.6% (95% CI = 6.7–8.7%, and I² = 96.68%, 43 studies). Co-infection by malaria and bacteremia did not occur by chance (p = 0.024, odds ratio = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.43–0.94, and I² = 95.7%, 29 studies). The pooled prevalence of deaths among patients with co-infection was 15.0% (95% CI = 8.0–23.0%, I² = 75.23%, 8 studies). On the basis of this study, we conclude that although the prevalence of co-infection was low, patients with malaria appear at greater risk of bacteremia and death.

Non-Malaria Causes of Fever among under-5 Children with Negative Results for Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test in South-Western Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Although the global malaria burden is decreasing, there are still concerns about overdiagnosis of malaria and the danger of misdiagnosis of non-malaria causes of fever. Clinicians continue to face the challenge of differentiating between these causes despite the introduction of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs).

AIM

To determine the prevalence and causes of non-malaria-caused fever in children in South-Western Nigeria.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of data obtained to evaluate the effect of restricting antimalarial treatment to positive mRDT children in rural and urban areas of southwest Nigeria. Clinical examinations, laboratory tests for malaria parasites (including thick blood film and mRDT) and bacterial identification were performed on children aged 3-59 months (n = 511). The non-malaria group comprised febrile children who had both negative mRDT and microscopy results, while the malaria group included those who were positive for either mRDT or microscopy. We compared the causes of fever among children with non-malaria fever and those with malaria.

RESULTS

The prevalence of non-malaria fever and bacteria-malaria co-infection was 37.2% and 2.0%, respectively. Non-malarial pathogens identified were viral (54.7%) and bacterial (32.1%) infections. The bacterial infections included bacteriaemia (2.7%), urinary tract infections (21.6%), skin infections (11.6%) and otitis media (2.6%). The leading bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumoniae.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence and wide range of non-malarial infections reinforces the need for point-of-care tests to identify bacterial and viral infections to optimize the treatment of febrile illnesses in malaria-endemic areas.

Recognition and Management of Pediatric Sepsis in a Resource-Limited Emergency Department in Mwanza, Tanzania: A Qualitative Study

OBJECTIVE

The World Health Organization aims to reduce worldwide under-five mortality rates (U5MR), with a focus on resource-limited settings (RLS). Tanzania reports a mean U5MR of 54 per 1000 live births, largely due to treatable infectious diseases that may lead to sepsis, accounting for 40% of the under-five deaths. Bugando Medical Centre in Mwanza, Tanzania represents a resource-limited setting in Sub-Saharan Africa and estimates a 14% pediatric mortality rate. We sought to better understand provider experience in recognizing and managing pediatric sepsis in the emergency department (ED) at Bugando Medical Centre in Mwanza, Tanzania.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative study with a purposive sampling of 14 Bugando Medical Centre ED providers from January to February 2019, via minimally structured interviews, to identify factors influencing the recognition and management of children presenting to the ED with concern for sepsis. Interviews were conducted in English, audio recorded, and transcribed. Data saturation determined the sample size. Three primary coders independently coded all transcripts and developed an initial coding list. Consensus among all authors generated a final coding scheme. A grounded theory approach guided data analysis.

RESULTS

We achieved thematic saturation after 13 interviews. Responses identified patient-, provider-, and health care system-related factors influencing sepsis recognition and management in children presenting to the ED. Patient-related factors include the use of traditional healers, limited parent health literacy, and geographic factors impacting access to medical care. Provider-related factors include limited knowledge of pediatric sepsis, lack of a standard communication process among providers, and insufficient experience with procedural skills on children. Health care system-related factors include limited personnel and resources, delayed transfers from referral hospitals, and lack of standard antibiotic-use guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

This qualitative study identified patient, provider, and health care system-related factors that influence the emergency care of children with suspected sepsis in a quaternary hospital in Mwanza, Tanzania. These factors may serve as a framework for educational opportunities to improve the early recognition and management of pediatric sepsis in a resource-limited setting.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the aetiological agents of non-malarial febrile illnesses in Africa

Background

The awareness of non-malarial febrile illnesses (NMFIs) has been on the rise over the last decades. Therefore, we undertook a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of causative agents of non-malarial fevers on the African continent.

Methodology

We searched for literature in African Journals Online, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify aetiologic agents that had been reported and to determine summary estimates of the proportional morbidity rates (PMr) associated with these pathogens among fever patients.

Findings

A total of 133 studies comprising 391,835 patients from 25 of the 54 African countries were eligible. A wide array of aetiologic agents were described with considerable regional differences among the leading agents. Overall, bacterial pathogens tested from blood samples accounted for the largest proportion. The summary estimates from the meta-analysis were low for most of the agents. This may have resulted from a true low prevalence of the agents, the failure to test for many agents or the low sensitivity of the diagnostic methods applied. Our meta-regression analysis of study and population variables showed that diagnostic methods determined the PMr estimates of typhoidal Salmonella and Dengue virus. An increase in the PMr of Klebsiella spp. infections was observed over time. Furthermore, the status of patients as either inpatient or outpatient predicted the PMr of Haemophilus spp. infections.

Conclusion

The small number of epidemiological studies and the variety of NMFI agents on the African continent emphasizes the need for harmonized studies with larger sample sizes. In particular, diagnostic procedures for NMFIs should be standardized to facilitate comparability of study results and to improve future meta-analyses. Reliable NMFI burden estimates will inform regional public health strategies.

Previous systematic reviews have highlighted the research priorities of causative agents for non-malarial febrile illnesses by counting the number of publications attributed to an agent. However, proportional morbidity rates are calculated by dividing the number of cases with a specific disease (numerator) by the total number of diagnosed fever cases (denominator) and are better indicators of the relative importance of aetiological agents in a population. Therefore, we present the leading causes of non-malarial febrile illnesses in African patients in both healthcare and community settings. Preference is given to HIV-negative patients when data could be found. We also determined summary estimates of Brucella spp., Chikungunya virus, Dengue virus, Haemophilus spp., Klebsiella spp., Leptospira spp., non-typhoidal Salmonella spp., typhoidal Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp.

The wide array of aetiological agents causing febrile illnesses on the African continent does not only complicate malaria control programs but may also hamper response to epidemic and pandemic illnesses such as Ebola and COVID-19. The harmonisation of diagnostics and study designs will reduce between-study differences, which may result in better estimates of disease burden on the continent and in the different African regions. This information is important for Pan-African surveillance and control efforts.

Clinical Features for the Diagnosis of Pediatric Urinary Tract Infections: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Accurate diagnosis of urinary tract infection in children is essential because children left untreated can experience permanent renal injury. We aimed to assess the diagnostic value of clinical features of pediatric urinary tract infection.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies in ambulatory care. We searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Health Technology Assessment, and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects databases from inception to January 27, 2020 for studies reporting 2 × 2 diagnostic accuracy data for clinical features compared with urine culture in children aged <18 years. For each clinical feature, we calculated likelihood ratios and posttest probabilities of urinary tract infection. To estimate summary parameters, we conducted a bivariate random effects meta-analysis and hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 35 studies (N = 78,427 patients) of moderate to high quality were included, providing information on 58 clinical features and 6 prediction rules. Only circumcision (negative likelihood ratio [LR-] 0.24; 95% CI, 0.08-0.72; n = 8), stridor (LR- 0.20; 95% CI, 0.05-0.81; n = 1), and diaper rash (LR- 0.13; 95% CI, 0.02-0.92; n = 1) were useful for ruling out urinary tract infection. Body temperature or fever duration showed limited diagnostic value (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.61; 95% CI, 0.47-0.73; n = 16). The Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Infection in Young Children score, Gorelick Scale score, and UTIcalc (https://uticalc.pitt.edu) might be useful to identify children eligible for urine sampling.

CONCLUSIONS

Few clinical signs and symptoms are useful for diagnosing or ruling out urinary tract infection in children. Clinical prediction rules might be more accurate; however, they should be validated externally. Physicians should not restrict urine sampling to children with unexplained fever or other features suggestive of urinary tract infection.

Prevalence of urinary tract infections and antibiogram of uropathogens isolated from children under five attending Bagamoyo District Hospital in Tanzania: A cross-sectional study

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common condition in children that recurs frequently. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of UTIs among children under five attending Bagamoyo District Hospital and determine its association with nutritional status. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that enrolled 214 children under five years old attending Bagamoyo District Hospital in Tanzania. Midstream urine was collected in sterile conditions and bottles. Samples were transported to the laboratory to isolate bacteria using cysteine lactose electrolyte deficient (CLED) agar.  Identification was undertaken using Gram staining, single iron agar test, sulfide-indole motility (SIM) test, and catalase and oxidase tests. A susceptibility test was done using the disc diffusion method. Anthropometric measurements were employed to assess malnutrition status and body mass index was determined using each child's weight and height. Results: Of the 214 children under five enrolled in the study, 123 (57.4%) were girls and 91 (42.6%) were boys. A total of 35 children were confirmed UTI-positive, making the prevalence 16.4%. Of positive children, 17 (7.9%) were girls and 18 (8.4%) were boys. The UTI prevalence was higher in boys than in girls but not statistically significant (p=0.244). Among the isolated uropathogens, Escherichia coli were common bacteria accounting for 65.7% of all isolates. The rate of other uropathogens isolated was Klebsiella spp. (17.1%), Pseudomonas spp. Proteus spp (11.4%) and (2.9%) and Staphylococci spp. (2.9%). The antibiogram of the isolated bacterial uropathogens showed high in-vitro resistance ranging from 90-95% to erythromycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and ampicillin. Conclusion: The prevalence of UTI for children under five was 16.4%. The most common causative agent of UTI was Escherichia coli. There was no association between UTI status and malnutrition status of the children. High resistance to antibiotics calls for antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance to preserve antibiotics' effectiveness in treating uropathogens.

Acute Febrile Illness Among Children in Butajira, South-Central Ethiopia During the Typhoid Fever Surveillance in Africa Program

Background

Clearly differentiating causes of fever is challenging where diagnostic capacities are limited, resulting in poor patient management. We investigated acute febrile illness in children aged ≤15 years enrolled at healthcare facilities in Butajira, Ethiopia, during January 2012 to January 2014 for the Typhoid Fever Surveillance in Africa Program.

Methods

Blood culture, malaria microscopy, and blood analyses followed by microbiological, biochemical, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of isolates were performed. We applied a retrospectively developed scheme to classify children as malaria or acute respiratory, gastrointestinal or urinary tract infection, or other febrile infections and syndromes. Incidence rates per 100 000 population derived from the classification scheme and multivariate logistic regression to determine fever predictors were performed.

Results

We rarely observed stunting (4/513, 0.8%), underweight (1/513, 0.2%), wasting (1/513, 0.2%), and hospitalization (21/513, 4.1%) among 513 children with mild transient fever and a mean disease severity score of 12 (95% confidence interval [CI], 11–13). Blood cultures yielded 1.6% (8/513) growth of pathogenic agents; microscopy detected 13.5% (69/513) malaria with 20 611/µL blood (95% CI, 15 352–25 870) mean parasite density. Incidences were generally higher in children aged ≤5 years than >5 to ≤15 years; annual incidences in young children were 301.3 (95% CI, 269.2–337.2) for malaria and 1860.1 (95% CI, 1778.0–1946.0) for acute respiratory and 379.9 (95% CI, 343.6–420.0) for gastrointestinal tract infections.

Conclusions

We could not detect the etiological agents in all febrile children. Our findings may prompt further investigations and the reconsideration of policies and frameworks for the management of acute febrile illness.

Assessment of Implementation of Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance and Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Tanzanian Health Facilities a Year After Launch of the National Action Plan

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a current global health threat and a challenge to the treatment of infectious diseases. The WHO advocates a strategy of antibiotic stewardship programs (ASP) in optimizing antimicrobial use in hospitals. This study aimed at assessing the existence of AMR surveillance and ASP implementation in health facilities in Tanzania in the year following the launch of the National Action Plan (NAP).

Methodology: From December 2017 through July 2018, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered online. A total of 199 health facilities in Tanzania mainland whose contacts was obtained from the Ministry of Health Community Development Gender Elderly and Children (MoHCDGEC) were reached by phone and thereafter, a survey was sent via text or e-mail to focal persons in the corresponding facilities.

Results: Only 39 (32.5%) responses from contacted facilities were received and analyzed. Thirty (76.9%) of the facilities were government-owned. Of the 39 respondents surveyed, 13 (35.9%) declared to have implemented some sort of coordinated ASP to promote the rational use of antimicrobials at their facilities. The respondents reported the presence of guidelines for the implementation of ASP at variable proportions, whereas the presence of a committee for Infection Prevention and Control was reported by 27 (69.2%). Twenty-four (61.5%) had a Medical and Therapeutic Committee. Although all 39 (100%) respondents were aware of the presence of AMR in Tanzania, only 26 (66.7%) were aware of the presence of the Tanzanian NAP for AMR. Hospital antibiotic policy document was present in 6 (15.4%) facilities. Only 7 (17.9%) facilities conducted prescription auditing; 9 (23.1%) had a hospital formulary; 14 (35.9%) had standard hospital prescription. 9 (23.1%) had software for data storage about AMR. Only 7 (17.9%) facilities conducted microorganisms' susceptibility tests and kept the record of the microorganism susceptibility testing.

Conclusion: Our study found the existence of AMR surveillance activities and ASP implementation in Tanzania, albeit at a low level. The implementation was inconsistent across the surveyed facilities. These data have identified areas of improvement in addressing AMR in Tanzania through the NAP.

Prevalence of gram negative bacteria causing community acquired pneumonia among adults in Mwanza City, Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Community acquired pneumonia (CAP) in adults is still a common and serious illness in the sub-Saharan Africa. Identification of the pathogens is crucial in the management of CAP. This study was done to determine the common bacterial pathogens, treatment outcomes and associated factors for microbiological confirmed CAP among adults attending the Bugando Medical Centre and Sekou Toure hospital in the city of Mwanza, Tanzania.

METHODS

This was a hospital based cross sectional study involving patients with community acquired pneumonia attending Bugando Medical Centre and Sekou Toure regional Hospital. Demographic and other data were collected using standardized data collection tool. Sputum culture was done followed by identification of the isolates and antibiotics susceptibility testing.

RESULTS

A total of 353 patients were enrolled in the study. Out of 353 sputum samples, 265(75%) were of good quality. Of 353 non-repetitive sputum cultures, 72/353 (20.4, 95% CI: 16.2-24.6) were positive for the bacterial pathogens with five patients having more than one pathogen. Good quality sputa had significantly higher yield of pathogenic bacteria than poor quality sputa (26.1% vs.3.4%, P = 0.001). The majority 64 (83.1%) of the isolates were gram negative bacteria. Common bacteria isolated were Klebsiella pneumoniae 23/77(29.9%), Streptococcus pyogenes 10/77 (13.0%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 9/77 (11.7%) and Escherichia coli 7/77 (9.1%). Of 23 K. pneumoniae isolates, 20/23 (87.0%) were resistant to ceftriaxone. Resistance to ceftriaxone was found to be associated with prolongation of CAP symptoms (p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Gram negative bacteria resistant to ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and ceftriaxone were most frequently isolated bacteria among adults' patients with CAP attending BMC and Sekou Toure hospital. Routine sputum culture should be performed to guide appropriate treatment of CAP among adults in developing countries.

High malaria parasitemia among outpatient febrile children in low endemic area, East-Central Tanzania in 2013

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the prevalence and distribution patterns of malaria in Kilosa district as part of non-malaria causes of febrile illnesses in children study. We enrolled febrile patients aged 2-13 years presenting at the outpatient department during the rainy and dry seasons, in 2013. For each participant, we tested for malaria parasites and identified parasite species using microscopy. We then calculated parasite density and estimated geometric mean parasite density.

RESULTS

The overall malaria prevalence in febrile children was 23.7% (n = 609). Plasmodium falciparum accounted for 98.6% of malaria positives. There was a heterogeneous distribution of malaria cases among the 17 wards constituting the catchment area. A high proportion (69.4%, n = 144) of malaria positive individuals had high parasite densities. Individuals who were enrolled in the rainy season had higher geometric mean parasite density (15415.1 parasites/µl, 95% CI 10735.3-22134.9) compared to the dry season (6115.3 parasites/µl, 95% CI 4237.8-8824.6). The relatively high malaria prevalence recorded in Kilosa, an area considered low endemicity, calls for concerted effort in documenting malaria burden at fine geographical scales and tailor preventive and control strategies that target hotspots of high malaria transmission.

C - reactive protein and urinary tract infection due to Gram-negative bacteria in a pediatric population at a tertiary hospital, Mwanza, Tanzania

Introduction

Gram-negative bacteria are the major cause of urinary tract infections (UTI) in children. There is limited data on UTI systemic response as measured using C-reactive protein (CRP). Here, we report the association of CRP and UTI among children attending the Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and July 2017. Urine and blood were collected and processed within an hour of collection. Data were analyzed using STATA version 13.

Results

Of 250 enrolled children, 76(30.4%) had significant bacteriuria with 56(22.4%, 95%CI; 11.5–33.3) having gram-negative bacteria infection. There was dual growth of gram-negative bacteria in 3 patients. Escherichia coli (32.2%, 19/59) was the most frequently pathogen detected. A total of 88/250(35.2%) children had positive CRP on qualitative assay. By multinomial logistic regression, positive CRP (RRR=4.02, 95%CI: 2.1–7.7, P<0.001) and age ≤ 2years (RRR=2.4, 95%CI: 1.23–4.73, P<0.01) significantly predicted the presence of significant bacteriuria due to gram-negative enteric bacteria.

Conclusion

C-reactive protein was significantly positive among children with UTI due to gram-negative bacteria and those with fever. In children with age ≤ 2 years, positive CRP indicates UTI due to gram-negative enteric bacteria.

Bacterial Profile And Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern Of Urinary Tract Infection Among Children Attending Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common and important clinical problem in pediatrics. Recurrent UTIs may lead to renal scarring, hypertension, and end-stage renal dysfunction later in life. The objective of the study was to determine bacterial profile and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among children attending Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital (FHRH).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2013 to May 2013 among children 5–15 years of age with symptoms of UTI. Samples were processed for culture and identification. Antimicrobial susceptibility was done for positive urine cultures by the Kirby-Bauer’s disk diffusion method based on standards of the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI). Data were entered into Epi-data version 3.2.1 and exported to the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 20 statistical software. Fisher’s exact test and binary logistic regression test results were used.

Results

A total of 259 urine samples were collected from children with UTI. The result revealed 41 (15.8%) samples had significant bacteriuria, among which the most prevalent pathogen was E. coli 14 (34.1%) followed by Pseudomonas species. Gram-negative bacteria showed high level of sensitivity to ciprofloxacin (70), norfloxacin (63.4%) and ceftriaxone (60%), whereas the level of resistance was high to ampicillin (80%) and nitrofurantoin (70%). Gram-positive isolates showed high sensitivity to ciprofloxacin (77.8%), penicillin (72.8%) and erythromycin (72.7%). Multiple drug resistance (MDR) for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was 100% and 83.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

E. coli is the predominant bacteria isolated in the present study. The results showed that the prevalence of resistance to at least one antibiotic to commonly prescribed antimicrobials was high. Hence, the guidelines for empiric treatment of UTI should be re-evaluated periodically based on local studies.

Common microbial causes of significant bacteriuria and their antibiotic resistance pattern in the Isfahan Province of Iran

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are considered the most common community-acquired infections worldwide, which have possible complications along with significant economic impact on national healthcare systems. The aim of this study was to identify the most common causes of significant bacteriuria and to assess their antimicrobial resistance pattern in the Isfahan province of Iran. In this cross-sectional study, 11,678 urine samples of the patients referred to Mahdieh Medical Diagnostic Centre Charity were examined over a period of 10 months (from September 2015 to June 2016). Among the cases, 6.85% were positive for bacteriuria (F/M = 11.3). Escherichia coli (62%) was the most frequently isolated bacteria, followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis (13.9%) and Staphylococcus aureus (6.8%). E. coli was more prevalent among patients with diabetes mellitus. E. coli isolates showed the highest resistance to nalidixic acid, Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole and Cefixime. Our results revealed that broad-spectrum antibiotic resistance is frequent among isolated uropathogens in Isfahan, Iran.

Deciphering risk factors for blood stream infections, bacteria species and antimicrobial resistance profiles among children under five years of age in North-Western Tanzania: a multicentre study in a cascade of referral health care system

BACKGROUND

Blood stream infections (BSIs) cause a complex cascade of inflammatory events, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality in children in Tanzania. This study was designed to delineate circulating bacterial species, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles and risk factors for BSIs and mortality among children in the cascade of referral health care facilities so as to guide comprehensive BSIs management.

METHODS

A multiple cross sectional analytical study was conducted between July 20, 2016 to October 04, 2017 involving 950 children less than five years of age in the North-western part of Tanzania. Children with clinical features suggestive of BSIs were included. Demographic, clinical and laboratory information on culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was collected from children; and analyzed using STATA version 13.0 software.

RESULTS

The prevalence of BSIs among children was 14.2% (95% CI: 12.1-16.6%), with specific prevalence in the district, regional and tertiary hospitals being 8.3, 6.4 and 20.0%, respectively. The most common bacterial pathogens isolated from 135 culture-positive children were Klebsiella pneumoniae (55, 40.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (23, 17.0%), and Escherichia coli (17, 12.6%). Multi-drug resistance (MDR) was higher in isolates from children at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) tertiary hospital than isolates from district and regional hospitals [OR (95% CI): 6.36 (2.15-18.76); p = 0.001]. Independent risk factors for BSIs were neonatal period [OR (95% CI): 1.93 (1.07-3.48); p = 0.003] and admission at BMC [2.01 (1.08-3.74); p = 0.028)]. Approximately 6.6% (61/932) of children died, and risk factors for mortality were found to be children attending BMC [OR (95% CI): 4.95 (1.95-12.5); p = 0.001)], neonatal period [OR (95% CI): 2.25 (1.02-5.00); p = 0.045)], and children who had blood culture positive results [OR (95% CI): 1.95 (1.07-3.56); p = 0.028)].

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of BSIs (14.2%) in this multi-centre study is high and predominantly caused by the MDR K. pneumoniae. Priority interventional measures to combat BSIs and mortality, specifically among neonates at BMC are urgently recommended.

Urinary tract infections in children: an overview of diagnosis and management

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and potentially serious bacterial infection of childhood. History and examination findings can be non-specific, so a urine sample is required to diagnose UTI. Sample collection in young precontinent children can be challenging. Bedside dipstick tests are useful for screening, but urine culture is required for diagnostic confirmation. Antibiotic therapy must be guided by local guidelines due to increasing antibiotic resistance. Duration of therapy and indications for imaging remain controversial topics and guidelines lack consensus. This article presents an overview of paediatric UTI diagnosis and management, with highlights of recent advances and evidence updates.

Can clinical signs or symptoms combined with basic hematology data be used to predict the presence of bacterial infections in febrile children under - 5 years?

BACKGROUND

Infectious diseases in children living in resource-limited settings are often presumptively managed on the basis of clinical signs and symptoms. Malaria is an exception. However, the interpretation of clinical signs and symptoms in relation to bacterial infections is often challenging, which may lead to an over prescription of antibiotics when a malaria infection is excluded. The present study aims to determine the association between clinical signs and symptoms and basic hematology data, with laboratory confirmed bacterial infections.

METHODS

A health survey was done by study nurses to collect clinical signs/symptoms in febrile (axillary temperature ≥ 37.5 °C) children under - 5 years of age. In addition, blood, stool and urine specimen were systematically collected from each child to perform bacterial culture and full blood cell counts. To determine the association between a bacterial infection with clinical signs/symptoms, and if possible supported by basic hematology data (hemoglobin and leucocyte rates), a univariate analysis was done. This was followed by a multivariate analysis only on those variables with a p-value p < 0.1 in the univariate analysis. Only a p-value of < 0.05 was considered as significant for multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 1099 febrile children were included. Bacteria were isolated from clinical specimens (blood-, stool- and urine- culture) of 127 (11.6%) febrile children. Multivariate logistical regression analysis revealed that a general bacterial infection (irrespective of the site of infection) was significantly associated with the following clinical signs/symptoms: diarrhea (p = 0.003), edema (p = 0.010) and convulsion (p = 0.021). Bacterial bloodstream infection was significantly associated with fever> 39.5 °C (p = 0.002), diarrhea (p = 0.019) and edema (p = 0.017). There was no association found between bacterial infections and basic haematological findings. If diarrhea and edema were absent, a good negative predictive value (100%) of a bacterial bloodstream infection was found, but the positive predictive value was low (33.3%) and the confidence interval was very large (2.5-100; 7.5-70.1).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that clinical signs and symptoms, combined with basic hematology data only, cannot predict bacterial infections in febrile children under - 5 years of age. The development of practical and easy deployable diagnostic tools to diagnose bacterial infections remains a priority.

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Bacterial Uropathogens Isolated from Pediatric Patients at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is considered as the most common bacterial infection seen among the pediatric patients.

OBJECTIVE

This study was carried out in order to determine the prevalence of urinary tract infection in pediatric patients, identify bacterial uropathogens responsible for the infection, and study the antibiotic sensitivity patterns of bacterial isolates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study designed and conducted from January to April 2014. Clean-voided midstream urine specimens were obtained from 384 pediatric patients less than or equal to 15 years in sterile universal bottles. Urine collected from each patient was inoculated onto CLED and blood agar plates using a calibrated inoculating loop with a capacity of 0.001 ml. Inoculated plates were incubated for 24-48 hours at 37°C at inverted position aerobically. Bacterial isolates were indentified and characterized by Gram stain and by using an array of standard routine biochemical tests. The antimicrobial susceptibility test was carried out by using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Frequency distribution tables were used to describe the findings. Logistical regression was also used to estimate crude odds ratio (COR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of positive responses to the different variables, and P values less than 0.05 were taken as statistically significant.

RESULT

In this study, a total of 384 patients (199 males and 185 females) aged less than or equal to 15 years from whom urine samples were collected were enrolled. Of these patients, 61 (15.9%) had significant bacteriuria. Of the 185 females, 36 (19.5%) came up with positive cultures, while 25 (12.6%) of the 199 males had significant bacteriuria, and the largest number of study subjects were below the age of 3 years, and the largest positive culture was obtained from this age group, accounting for 35 (57.4%.) out of 61 positive cultures. Bacterial species belonging to six genera were isolated and identified from 61 positive cultures, and the genera were Escherichia, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, Proteus, Acinetobacter, and Enterococcus. E. coli was isolated in 28 cases (49.5 %), followed by Klebsiella spp. in 17 cases (27.9%), Staphylococcus spp. in 5 patients (8.2%.) (S. aureus in one and coagulase-negative staphylococci in 4 cases), Enterococcus in 7 cases (11.5%), Proteus spp. in 3 cases (4.9%), and Acinetobacter in one case (1.6%). Of the bacterial isolates, E. coli was found out to be the most common pathogen followed by Klebsiella spp. Furthermore, E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were the most common pathogens in female patients accounting for 71.4% and 64.7%, respectively. Regarding susceptibility tests, E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were not 100% susceptible to any of the 11 antibiotics tested. Acinetobacter spp. had 100% resistance to three antibiotics: gentamicin (GN), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (SXM), and augmentin (AMP). But they were 100% susceptible to ciprofloxacin (CIP), cefuroxime (CXM), norfloxacin (NOR), and ceftazidime (CAZ). On the contrary, Proteus spp. was 100% sensitive to all drugs except to nitrofurantoin. Species of Enterococcus had resistance of 71.4% to chloramphenicol (C) and 85.7% to both SXM and erythromycin. S. aureus was 100% susceptible to almost all drugs, while coagulase-negative staphylococci were not as susceptible as S. aureus. Multidrug resistance to two or more drugs was observed in 73.7% of the bacterial isolates.

CONCLUSION

This study determined the prevalence of urinary tract infection in pediatric patients and highlighted the major bacterial uropathogens involved in UTI for the first time in the country. Furthermore, bacterial pathogen species and their frequency was consistent with the usually reported pattern, with E. coli being the most common organism isolated in cases of urinary tract infections followed by Klebsiella spp. Most of the bacterial isolates were multidrug resistant, and it is therefore suggested that appropriate antimicrobials should be administered to reduce the risk of multidrug resistant organisms developing and avert ineffectiveness of antibiotics. This condition indicates that antibiotic selection should be based on knowledge of the local prevalence of bacterial organisms and antibiotic sensitivities rather than empirical treatment. The present study indicated that ciprofloxacin (CIP), ceftazidime (CAZ), cefotaxime (CTX), cefuroxime (CXM), clindamycin (DA), and ceftriaxone (CRO) were the best antibiotics for the treatment of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial uropathogens, respectively, in the study area relatively.

Whole genome sequencing reveals high clonal diversity of Escherichia coli isolated from patients in a tertiary care hospital in Moshi, Tanzania

Background

Limited information regarding the clonality of circulating E. coli strains in tertiary care hospitals in low and middle-income countries is available. The purpose of this study was to determine the serotypes, antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes. Further, we carried out a phylogenetic tree reconstruction to determine relatedness of E. coli isolated from patients in a tertiary care hospital in Tanzania.

Methods

E. coli isolates from inpatients admitted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre between August 2013 and August 2015 were fully genome-sequenced at KCMC hospital. Sequence analysis was done for identification of resistance genes, Multi-Locus Sequence Typing, serotyping, and virulence genes. Phylogeny reconstruction using CSI Phylogeny was done to ascertain E. coli relatedness. Stata 13 (College Station, Texas 77,845 USA) was used to determine Cohen's kappa coefficient of agreement between the phenotypically tested and whole genome sequence predicted antimicrobial resistance.

Results

Out of 38 E. coli isolates, 21 different sequence types (ST) were observed. Eight (21.1%) isolates belonged to ST131; of which 7 (87.5.%) were serotype O25:H4. Ten (18.4%) isolates belonged to ST10 clonal complex; of these, four (40.0%) were ST617 with serotype O89:H10. Twenty-eight (73.7%) isolates carried genes encoding beta-lactam resistance enzymes. On average, agreement across all drugs tested was 83.9%. Trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole) showed moderate agreement: 45.8%, kappa =15% and p = 0.08. Amoxicillin-clavulanate showed strongest agreement: 87.5%, kappa = 74% and p = 0.0001. Twenty-two (57.9%) isolates carried virulence factors for host cells adherence and 25 (65.7%) for factors that promote E. coli immune evasion by increasing survival in serum. The phylogeny analysis showed that ST131 clustering close together whereas ST10 clonal complex had a very clear segregation of the ST617 and a mix of the rest STs.

Conclusion

There is a high diversity of E. coli isolated from patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Tanzania. This underscores the necessity to routinely screen all bacterial isolates of clinical importance in tertiary health care facilities. WGS use for laboratory-based surveillance can be an effective early warning system for emerging pathogens and resistance mechanisms in LMICs.

Treatable causes of fever among children under five years in a seasonal malaria transmission area in Burkina Faso

BACKGROUND

Fever remains a major public health problem. In Burkina Faso, more than half of febrile children are considered not to be infected by malaria. This study prospectively assessed probable (treatable) causes of fever in Burkinabe children.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted among febrile children (≥37.5 °C) under 5 years of age presenting at four health facilities and one referral hospital in rural Burkina Faso. From each participant, blood was collected for malaria microscopy and culture, urine for dipstick testing and culturing if tested positive for leucocytes and nitrite, stool for rotavirus/adenovirus testing, culture and parasitology, and a nasopharyngeal swab for culture.

RESULTS

In total 684 febrile children were included in the study. Plasmodium falciparum malaria was found in 49.7% (340/684) of the participants and non-malaria infections in 49.1% (336/684) of children. The non-nalaria infections included gastro-intestinal infections (37.0%), common bacterial pathogens of nasopharynx (24.3%), bacterial bloodstream infections (6.0%) and urinary tract infections (1.8%). Nearly 45% (154/340) of the malaria infected children were co-infected with non-nalaria infections, but only 3.2% (11/340) of these co-infections could be considered as a possible alternative cause of fever. In contrast, in the malaria microscopy negative children 18.0% (62/344) of the infections could be the probable cause of the fever. Pathogens were not isolated from 23.7% (162/684) of the febrile cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Malaria remains the most common pathogen found in febrile children in Burkina Faso. However, a relative high number of febrile children had non-malaria infections. The correct diagnosis of these non-malaria fevers is a major concern, and there is an urgent need to develop more point-of-care diagnostic tests and capacities to identify and treat the causes of these fevers.

Self-medication among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Makongoro health centre in Mwanza, Tanzania: a challenge to health systems

BACKGROUND

Self-medication is a universal challenge that requires attention because of the potential threat not only to the pregnant women but also to unborn child. Data on self-medication practice and predictors among pregnant women is lacking in Tanzania. Information on the effects of this practice to the pregnant woman and the foetus globally is also scanty.

METHODS

This was a cross sectional study which was conducted using face to face interview with 372 pregnant women at Makongoro health centre. Semi-structured questionnaires were used. Data were analysed using STATA 13 (Statistical Corporation, College Station, Texas, US).

RESULTS

A total of 372 pregnant women participated in the study. The prevalence of self-medication among pregnant women was 172 (46.24%). There was a significant statistical association between self-medication and occupation (P value =0.01), gestation age (P < 0.01) and education (P < 0.01). Age, marital status and gravidity were not associated with self-medication (P = 0.809, P = 0.243 and P = 0.922) respectively. When bivariate logistic regression was performed, occupation and education were the only determining factors for self-medication. Pregnant women who were unemployed, doing business and house wife were most likely to practice self-medication than employed pregnant women (P = 0.03; OR = 2.33; 95% CI, 1.06-5.31, P = 0.01; OR = 2.31; CI 1.21-4.41, P = <0.01, OR = 2.73, 95% CI 0.52-2.43) respectively. Pregnant women with no formal education, incomplete primary education, primary education and secondary education were most likely to practice self-medication than pregnant women with college or university education (P < 0.01, OR = 6.37 95% CI 2.37-19.03, P < 0.01, OR = 6.58, 95% CI 2.36-18.25, P < 0.01, OR = 3.78, 95% CI 1.89-7.56, P < 0.01, OR = 2.59 95% CI = 1.30-5.17). The leading illness/symptoms which led to self-medication among pregnant women attending clinic were malaria 56 (32.56%, morning sickness 44 (25.55%) and headache 33(19.19%). Drugs commonly used in self-medication among pregnant women were ant malarial 42 (24.42%), antiemetics 59 (34.30%) and analgesics 33 (19.19%).

CONCLUSION

Prevalence of self-medication among pregnant women is high in Tanzania. This is a threat to the safety of the developing foetus and the pregnant woman. Therefore there is a need of interventions to minimize the practice among pregnant women.

Accuracy of a Plasmodium falciparum specific histidine-rich protein 2 rapid diagnostic test in the context of the presence of non-malaria fevers, prior anti-malarial use and seasonal malaria transmission

Background

It remains challenging to distinguish malaria from other fever causing infections, as a positive rapid diagnostic test does not always signify a true active malaria infection. This study was designed to determine the influence of other causes of fever, prior anti-malarial treatment, and a possible seasonality of the performance of a PfHRP2 RDT for the diagnosis of malaria in children under-5 years of age living in a malaria endemic area.

Methods

A prospective etiology study was conducted in 2015 among febrile children under 5 years of age in Burkina Faso. In order to assess the influence of other febrile illnesses, prior treatment and seasonality on the performance of a PfHRP2 RDT in diagnosing malaria, the RDT results were compared with the gold standard (expert microscopic diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum) and test results were analysed by assuming that prior anti-malarial use and bacterial/viral infection status would have been known prior to testing. To assess bacterial and viral infection status blood, urine and stool samples were analysed.

Results

In total 683 blood samples were analysed with microscopy and RDT-PfHRP2. Plasmodium falciparum malaria was diagnosed in 49.8% (340/683) by microscopy compared to 69.5% (475/683) by RDT-PfHRP2. The RDT-PfHRP2 reported 29.7% (141/475) false positive results and 1.8% (6/340) false negative cases. The RDT-PfHRP2 had a high sensitivity (98.2%) and negative predictive value (97.1%), but a low specificity (58.9%) and positive predictive value (70.3%). Almost 50% of the alternative cause of fever were diagnosed by laboratory testing in the RDT false positive malaria group.

Conclusions

The use of a malaria RDT-PfHRP2 in a malaria endemic area may cause misdiagnosis of the actual cause of fever due to false positive test results. The development of a practical diagnostic tool to screen for other causes of fever in malaria endemic areas is required to save lives.

Predictive value of clinical and laboratory features for the main febrile diseases in children living in Tanzania: A prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

To construct evidence-based guidelines for management of febrile illness, it is essential to identify clinical predictors for the main causes of fever, either to diagnose the disease when no laboratory test is available or to better target testing when a test is available. The objective was to investigate clinical predictors of several diseases in a cohort of febrile children attending outpatient clinics in Tanzania, whose diagnoses have been established after extensive clinical and laboratory workup.

METHOD

From April to December 2008, 1005 consecutive children aged 2 months to 10 years with temperature ≥38°C attending two outpatient clinics in Dar es Salaam were included. Demographic characteristics, symptoms and signs, comorbidities, full blood count and liver enzyme level were investigated by bi- and multi-variate analyses (Chan, et al., 2008). To evaluate accuracy of combined predictors to construct algorithms, classification and regression tree (CART) analyses were also performed.

RESULTS

62 variables were studied. Between 4 and 15 significant predictors to rule in (aLR+>1) or rule out (aLR+<1) the disease were found in the multivariate analysis for the 7 more frequent outcomes. For malaria, the strongest predictor was temperature ≥40°C (aLR+8.4, 95%CI 4.7-15), for typhoid abdominal tenderness (5.9,2.5-11), for urinary tract infection (UTI) age ≥3 years (0.20,0-0.50), for radiological pneumonia abnormal chest auscultation (4.3,2.8-6.1), for acute HHV6 infection dehydration (0.18,0-0.75), for bacterial disease (any type) chest indrawing (19,8.2-60) and for viral disease (any type) jaundice (0.28,0.16-0.41). Other clinically relevant and easy to assess predictors were also found: malaria could be ruled in by recent travel, typhoid by jaundice, radiological pneumonia by very fast breathing and UTI by fever duration of ≥4 days. The CART model for malaria included temperature, travel, jaundice and hepatomegaly (sensitivity 80%, specificity 64%); typhoid: age ≥2 years, jaundice, abdominal tenderness and adenopathy (46%,93%); UTI: age <2 years, temperature ≥40°C, low weight and pale nails (20%,96%); radiological pneumonia: very fast breathing, chest indrawing and leukocytosis (38%,97%); acute HHV6 infection: less than 2 years old, (no) dehydration, (no) jaundice and (no) rash (86%,51%); bacterial disease: chest indrawing, chronic condition, temperature ≥39.7°c and fever duration >3 days (45%,83%); viral disease: runny nose, cough and age <2 years (68%,76%).

CONCLUSION

A better understanding of the relative performance of these predictors might be of great help for clinicians to be able to better decide when to test, treat, refer or simply observe a sick child, in order to decrease morbidity and mortality, but also to avoid unnecessary antimicrobial prescription. These predictors have been used to construct a new algorithm for the management of childhood illnesses called ALMANACH.

Contribution of urinary tract infection to the burden of febrile illnesses in young children in rural Kenya

INTRODUCTION

The clinical features of UTI in young children may not localize to the urinary tract and closely resemble other febrile illnesses. In malaria endemic areas, a child presenting with fever is often treated presumptively for malaria without investigation for UTI. Delayed or inadequate treatment of UTI increases the risk of bacteremia and renal scarring in young children and subsequently complications as hypertension and end stage renal disease in adulthood.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out in a hospital in western Kenya. Inpatients and outpatients 2 months to five years with axillary temperature ≥37.5°C and no antibiotic use in the previous week were enrolled between September 2012 and April 2013. Urine dipstick tests, microscopy, and cultures were done and susceptibility patterns to commonly prescribed antibiotics established. UTI was defined as presence of pyuria (a positive urine dipstick or microscopy test) plus a positive urine culture.

RESULTS

A total of 260 subjects were recruited; 45.8% were female and the median age was 25months (IQR: 13, 43.5). The overall prevalence of UTI was 11.9%. Inpatients had a higher prevalence compared to outpatients (17.9% v 7.8%, p = 0.027). UTI co-existed with malaria but the association was not significant (OR 0.80, p = 0.570). The most common organisms isolated were Escherichia coli (64.5%) and Staphylococcus aureus (12.9%) and were sensitive to ciproflaxin, cefuroxime, ceftriaxone, gentamycin and nitrofurantoin but largely resistant to more commonly used antibiotics such as ampicillin (0%), amoxicillin (16.7%), cotrimoxazole (16.7%) and amoxicillin-clavulinate (25%).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates UTI contributes significantly to the burden of febrile illness in young children and often co-exists with other infections. Multi-drug resistant organisms are common therefore choice of antimicrobial therapy should be based on local sensitivity pattern.

Prevalence, Aetiology, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Urinary Tract Infection Amongst Children Admitted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania

Background:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the paediatric population are well recognised as a cause of acute morbidity and chronic medical conditions, such as hypertension and renal insufficiency later in adulthood. Although antimicrobial treatment of UTIs is simple, the disease is still largely misdiagnosed and mismanaged. Moreover, increasing resistance to conventional antimicrobials is eroding the success of empiric therapy.

Objective

To determine prevalence, aetiological agents, and antimicrobial sensitivity patterns of UTIs amongst children admitted at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC).

Methodology:

A cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted at the KCMC Department of Paediatrics and Child Health between December 2013 and April 2014. All children ages 2 months to 14 years who were admitted in the paediatric ward during the study period and fulfilled study criteria were enrolled. Data were collected by structured questionnaires. A urine dipstick test was done to detect the presence of nitrites and leucocytes, and to perform microscopic analysis of leucocytes and bacteria. All positive cases with the urine dipstick were cultured to determine bacterial species and antimicrobial susceptibility. Urine culture is considered the gold standard to confirm UTI.

Results:

A total of 343 children enrolled in the study. Of these, 208 (60.6%) were male and 135 (39.4%) were female. The urine dipstick test was positive for leucocyte esterase and nitrate in 87 (25.4%) and 33 (9.6%), respectively, and urine microscopy showed leucocytes and bacteria by microscope in 38 (11.1%) and 24 (7.0%) samples, respectively. UTI was confirmed by culture in 11.4% (39/343) of the samples. Female children and children less than 24 months old had a higher prevalence of UTI (17% and 15.8%, respectively). Female sex (odds ratio [OR] 2.46, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25–4.86), presence of leucocytes esterase (OR 32.20, 95% CI, 12.03–86.19), and nitrate in urine dipstick (OR 5.87, 95% CI, 3.44–3.65) were associated with UTI. Leucocyte esterase, nitrite, microscopic leucocyte, and bacteria were positive in 34 (87.2%), 24 (61.5%), 30 (78.9%), and 23 (59%) samples, respectively, using culture as a gold standard. Antimicrobial sensitivity of nitrites, leucocyte esterase, microscopic leucocyte, and bacteria was 38.1%, 87.2%, 97.4%, and 59.0%, respectively, and specificity was 94.1%, 82.6%, 82.2%, and 99.7%. The most common bacterial species isolated were Escherichia coli 46.2% (18/39) and Klebsiella pneumoniae 30.8% (12/39); both exhibited low susceptibility to ampicillin, co-trimoxazole, and clindamycin, but they were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, nalidixic acid, and ceftazidime.

Conclusions

UTIs are common conditions affecting children admitted at KCMC. The prevalence is higher in infants and children younger than 24 months. E coli and K pneumoniae were the most common isolated organisms with low susceptibility in commonly used antibiotics. Antimicrobials, such as ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, and gentamicin, are more likely to be successful for empirical treatment of UTIs.

Antimicrobial resistance pattern: a report of microbiological cultures at a tertiary hospital in Tanzania

Background

Antimicrobial resistance has been declared by the World Health Organization as a threat to the public health. The aim of this study was to analyze antimicrobial resistance patterns of the common pathogens occurring at the Bugando Medical Centre (BMC), Mwanza, Tanzania to provide data for antimicrobial stewardship programmes.

Methods

A total of 3330 microbiological culture results scripts representing non-repetitive specimens reported between June 2013 and May 2015 were retrieved and analyzed for pathogens and their susceptibility patterns using STATA-11 software.

Results

Out of 3330 specimens, 439 (13.2%) had positive culture. Staphylococcus aureus (n = 100; 22.8%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 65; 14.8%) and Escherichia coli (n = 41; 9.3%) were the most frequently isolated bacteria. Of 78 Staphylococcus aureus tested, 27 (34.6%) were found to be methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Rates of resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli isolates to third generation cephalosporins were 38.5% (25/65) and 29.3% (12/41) respectively. Staphylococcus aureus and Klesbiella pneumoniae were commonly isolated from bloodstream infections while Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the predominant isolates from urinary tract and wounds infections respectively. Of 23 Salmonella species isolated, 22 (95%) were recovered from the blood. Nine of the 23 Salmonella species isolates (39%) were found to be resistant to third generation cephalosporins. The resistance rate of gram-negative bacteria to third generation cephalosporins increased from 26.5% in 2014 to 57.9% in 2015 (p = 0.004) while the rate of MRSA decreased from 41.2% in 2013 to 9.5% in 2015 (p = 0.016). Multidrug-resistant gram-negative isolates were commonly isolated from Intensive Care Units and it was noted that, the majority of invasive infections were due to gram-negative bacteria.

Conclusion

There is an increase in proportion of gram-negative isolates resistant to third generation cephalosporins. The diversity of potential pathogens resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics underscores the importance of sustained and standardized antimicrobial resistance surveillance and antibiotic stewardship programmes in developing countries.

Aetiologies of non-malaria febrile episodes in children under 5 years in sub-Saharan Africa

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview of the most frequent aetiologies found in febrile episodes of children under 5 years from sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS

MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for publications in English and French on non-malaria fever episodes in African children under 5 years of age, which were published between January 1990 and July 2015. Case reports and conference abstracts were excluded.

RESULTS

In total, 3851 titles and abstracts were reviewed, and 153 were selected for full screening of which 18 were included in the present review. Bloodstream infection (BSI) was most commonly investigated (nine of 18) followed by urinary tract infection (UTI) (four of 18) and respiratory tract infection (RTI) (two of 18). Few studies investigated BSI and UTI in the same children (two of 18), or BSI and gastrointestinal infection (GII) (one of 18). As for BSI, the most frequently isolated bacteria were E. coli (four of 12), Streptococcus pneumonia (four of 12), Salmonella spp (three of 12) and Staphylococcus aureus (two of 12) with a positive identification rate of 19.7-33.3%, 5.2-27.6%, 11.7-65.4% and 23.5-42.0%, respectively. As for UTI, the main bacteria isolated were E. coli (six of six) and Klebsiella spp (six of six) with a positive rate of 20.0-72.3% and 10.0-28.5%, respectively. No bacterium was isolated in RTI group, but Human influenzae A and B were frequently found, with the highest positive identification rate in Tanzania (75.3%). Dengue virus (two of 12) was the most frequently reported viral infection with a positive identification rate of 16.7-30.8%. Finally, only rotavirus/adenovirus (69.2% positive identification rate) was found in GII and no bacterium was isolated in this group.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of treatable causes of non-malaria fever episodes requires a proper diagnosis of the origin of fever followed by an appropriate treatment, thereby reducing the under-5 mortality in sub-Saharan Africa and preventing the overprescription of antibiotics and thus circumventing the rise of antibiotic resistance.

Co-circulation of Plasmodium and Bacterial DNAs in Blood of Febrile and Afebrile Children from Urban and Rural Areas in Gabon

Malaria is considered to be the most common etiology of fever in sub-Saharan Africa while bacteremias exist but are under assessed. This study aimed to assess bacteremias and malaria in children from urban and rural areas in Gabon. DNA extracts from blood samples of 410 febrile and 60 afebrile children were analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Plasmodium spp. was the microorganism most frequently detected in febrile (78.8%, 323/410) and afebrile (13.3%, 8/60) children, (P < 0.001). DNA from one or several bacteria were detected in 15 febrile patients (3.7%) but not in the controls (P = 0.1). This DNA was more frequently detected as co-infections among febrile children tested positive for Plasmodium (4.6%, 15/323) than in those tested negative for Plasmodium (0%, 0/87; P = 0.04). The bacteria detected were Streptococcus pneumoniae 2.4% (10/410), Staphylococcus aureus 1.7% (7/410), Salmonella spp. 0.7% (3/410), Streptococcus pyogenes 0.2% (1/410) and Tropheryma whipplei 0.2% (1/410) only in febrile children. Coxiella burnetii, Borrelia spp., Bartonella spp., Leptospira spp., and Mycobacterium tuberculosis were not observed. This paper reports the first detection of bacteremia related to T. whipplei in Gabon and shows that malaria decreases in urban areas but not in rural areas. Co-infections in febrile patients are common, highlighting the need to improve fever management strategies in Gabon.

Causes of non-malarial febrile illness in outpatients in Tanzania

Objective

In sub‐Saharan Africa, the use of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDT) has raised awareness of alternative fever causes in children but few studies have included adults. To address this gap, we conducted a study of mRDT‐negative fever aetiologies among children and adults in Tanzania.

Methods

A total of 1028 patients aged 3 months to 50 years with a febrile illness and negative mRDT were enrolled from a Tanzanian hospital outpatient department. All had a physical examination and cultures from blood, nasopharynx/throat and urine. Patients were followed on Days 7 and 14 and children meeting WHO criteria for pneumonia were followed on Day 2 with chest radiology.

Results

Respiratory symptoms were the most frequent presenting complaint, reported by 20.3% of adults and 64.0% (339/530) of children. Of 38 X‐rayed children meeting WHO pneumonia criteria, 47.4% had a normal X‐ray. Overall, only 1.3% of 1028 blood cultures were positive. Salmonella typhi was the most prevalent pathogen isolated (7/13, 53.8%) and S. typhi patients reported fever for a median of 7 days (range 2–14). Children with bacteraemia did not present with WHO symptoms requiring antibiotic treatment. Young children and adults had similar prevalences of positive urine cultures (24/428 and 29/498, respectively).

Conclusion

Few outpatient fevers are caused by blood stream bacterial infection, and most adult bacteraemia would be identified by current clinical guidelines although paediatric bacteraemia may be more difficult to diagnose. While pneumonia may be overdiagnosed, urinary tract infection was relatively common. Our results emphasise the difficulty in identifying African children in need of antibiotics among the majority who do not.

Multi-resistant gram negative enteric bacteria causing urinary tract infection among malnourished underfives admitted at a tertiary hospital, northwestern, Tanzania

Background

Infections are common complications occurring in malnourished childrenas a result of impaired immunity. Urinary tract infections (UTI) have been found to be the commonest cause of fever in normal children in developing countries. However, data regarding UTI among malnourished children is limited because in most of time severe and moderately malnourished children are afebrile despite significant bacteriuria.

Methods

A total of 402 malnourished underfives were enrolled. Demographic and other clinical characteristics were collected using standardized data collection tool. Urine specimens were cultured and interpreted according to standard operating procedures. Data were analyzed using STATA version 11.

Results

Out of 402 malnourished underfives, 229 (56.9 %) were male. The median age in months was 17 (IQR; 12–31). Of 402 malnourished underfives, 83 (20.3 %) had significant bacteriuria of gram negative enteric bacteria. Escherichia coli 35/84 and Klebsiella pneumonia 20/84 were predominant bacteria isolated. More than 37 % of isolates were resistant to third generation cephalosporins with all of them exhibiting extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) phenotype. Rates of resistance to ampicillin, amoxillin/clavulanic acid, gentamicin and ciprofloxacin were 82/84 (98.7 %), 47/55 (85.4 %), 45/84 (57.8 %) and 9/84 (10.8 %) respectively. Decrease in age and increase in lymphocytes count were independent factors on multivariate logistic regression analysis found to predict UTI (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Multi-resistant gram negative enteric bacteria are common cause of UTI among underfives. A significant number of severe and moderate malnourished children with bacteriuria had no fever. Therefore, routine testing for UTI is emphasized in all malnourished underfives so that appropriate treatment can be initiated.

Molecular Detection of Fastidious and Common Bacteria as Well as Plasmodium spp. in Febrile and Afebrile Children in Franceville, Gabon

Malaria was considered as the main cause of fever in Africa. However, with the roll back malaria initiative, the causes of fever in Africa may change. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of bacteria and Plasmodium spp. in febrile and afebrile (controls) children from Franceville, Gabon. About 793 blood samples from febrile children and 100 from controls were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) coupled with sequencing. Plasmodium spp. was the microorganism most detected in febrile (74.5%, 591/793) and controls (13%, 13/100), P < 0.0001. Its coinfection with bacteria was found only in febrile children (P = 0.0001). Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent bacterium in febrile children (2.8%, 22/793) and controls (3%, 3/100). Eight cases of Salmonella spp. (including two Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi) and two of Streptococcus pneumoniae were found only among febrile children. Borrelia spp. was found in 2 controls while Rickettsia felis was detected in 10 children (in 8 febriles and 2 afebriles). No DNA of other targeted microorganisms was detected. Plasmodium spp. remains prevalent while Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae were common bacteria in Gabon. Two fastidious bacteria, Rickettsia felis and Borrelia spp., were found. Inclusion of controls should improve the understanding of the causes of fever in sub-Saharan Africa.

Aetiology of acute febrile episodes in children attending Korogwe District Hospital in north-eastern Tanzania

Introduction

Although the burden of malaria in many parts of Tanzania has declined, the proportion of children with fever has not changed. This situation underscores the need to explore the possible causes of febrile episodes in patients presenting with symptoms at the Korogwe District Hospital (KDH).

Methods

A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted at KDH, north-eastern Tanzania. Patients aged 2 to 59 months presenting at the outpatient department with an acute medical condition and fever (measured axillary temperature ≥37.5°C) were enrolled. Blood samples were examined for malaria parasites, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and bacterial infections. A urine culture was performed in selected cases to test for bacterial infection and a chest radiograph was requested if pneumonia was suspected. Diagnosis was based on both clinical and laboratory investigations.

Results

A total of 867 patients with a median age of 15.1 months (Interquartile range 8.6–29.9) were enrolled from January 2013 to October 2013. Respiratory tract infections were the leading clinical diagnosis with 406/867 (46.8%) of patients diagnosed with upper respiratory tract infection and 130/867 (15.0%) with pneumonia. Gastroenteritis was diagnosed in 184/867 (21.2%) of patients. Malaria infection was confirmed in 72/867 (8.3%) of patients. Bacterial infection in blood and urine accounted for 26/808 (3.2%) infections in the former, and 66/373 (17.7%) infections in the latter. HIV infection was confirmed in 10/824 (1.2%) of patients. Respiratory tract infections and gastroenteritis were frequent in patients under 36 months of age (87.3% and 91.3% respectively). Co-infections were seen in 221/867 (25.5%) of patients. The cause of fever was not identified in 65/867 (7.5%) of these patients.

Conclusions

The different proportions of infections found among febrile children reflect the causes of fever in the study area. These findings indicate the need to optimise patient management by developing malaria and non-malaria febrile illnesses management protocols.

Bacterial uropathogens isolates and antibiograms in children under 5 years of age

BACKGROUND

Childhood urinary infections are among the most common febrile illnesses occurring during this period with varying susceptibility to antibiotic.

AIM

The aim of this study was to identify uropathogens responsible to for urinarytract infection (UTIs) in children less than 5 years of age, and determine the antibiograms of the isolates to commonly used antibiotics.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Hundred and four children (2 months - 5 years old) seen at the Gadarif Teaching Hospital from January 2012 and December 2013 were evaluated. A urine specimen was obtained by a plastic bag with an adhesive backing around an opening or by direct voiding into sterile container. Urine was examined microscopically and those with significant pyuria and bacteruria were further cultured and microorganisms were identified and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility.

RESULTS

Out of 304 children suffering from UTIs; 145(47.7%) had significant pyuria of them; 54(17.8 %) had positive bacterial growth. The frequency of sex and residency were almost the same. E. coli (42.6%) was the most common uropathogen, sensitive to ciprofloxacin (91.3%), followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (29.6%) sensitive to Ciprofloxacin (75%)and Norofloxacin (68.8%), Klebsiellapneumoniae (18.5%) sensitive to Ciprofloxacin and Norofloxacin and Nalidixic acid (90%) and Proteus mirabilis sensitive to Ciprofloxacin and Norofloxacin (90%), Amoxicillin / clavulanic acid (Augmentin(80%).

CONCLUSION

The most common uropathogens were E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Klebsiellapneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis. Ciprofloxacin is the recommended initial empirical therapy while awaiting the culture and sensitivity results.

Association of antepartum and postpartum depression in Ghanaian and Ivorian women with febrile illness in their offspring: a prospective birth cohort study

In low-income countries, perinatal depression is common, but longitudinal data on its influence on child health are rare. We examined the association between maternal depression and febrile illness in children. There were 654 mother/child dyads in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire that were enrolled in a prospective birth cohort in 2010-2011 and underwent 2-years of follow up. Mothers were examined for depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire depression module antepartum and 3 and 12 months postpartum. The hazard of febrile illness in children of depressed and nondepressed mothers was estimated using a recurrent event Cox proportional hazards model. The prevalences of antepartum depression in mothers from Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana were 28.3% and 26.3%, respectively. The prevalences of depression at 3 and 12 months postpartum were 11.8% and 16.1% (Côte d'Ivoire) and 8.9% and 7.2% (Ghana). The crude and adjusted (for country and socioeconomic status) hazard ratios of febrile illness in children of depressed mothers compared with those in children of nondepressed mothers were 1.57 (95% confidence interval: 1.20, 2.07) and 1.32 (95% confidence interval: 1.01, 1.74) respectively. Perinatal depression was frequent and associated with febrile illness in the offspring. Our results showed that a high prevalence of depression in sub-Saharan Africa may pose a serious public health threat to women and their offspring.

Antimicrobial resistance in human and animal pathogens in Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique and Tanzania: an urgent need of a sustainable surveillance system

A review of the published and unpublished literature on bacterial resistance in human and animals was performed. Sixty-eight articles/reports from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia were reviewed. The majority of these articles were from Tanzania. There is an increasing trend in the incidence of antibiotic resistance; of major concern is the increase in multidrug- resistant Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio cholera, non-typhoid Salmonella and other pathogens responsible for nosocomial infections. The increase in methicillin- resistant Staphylococcus aureus and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers in the countries under review confirms the spread of these clones worldwide. Clinical microbiology services in these countries need to be strengthened in order to allow a coordinated surveillance for antimicrobial resistance and provide data for local treatment guidelines and for national policies to control antimicrobial resistance. While the present study does not provide conclusive evidence to associate the increasing trend in antibiotic resistance in humans with the use of antibiotics in animals, either as feed additives or veterinary prescription, we strongly recommend a one-health approach of systematic surveillance across the public and animal health sectors, as well as the adherence to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization)-OIE (World Organization of animal Health) –WHO(World Health Organization) recommendations for non-human antimicrobial usage.

Bacteremia and resistant gram-negative pathogens among under-fives in Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic resistance is one of the most serious public health concerns worldwide and is increasing at an alarming rate, making daily treatment decisions more challenging. This study is aimed at identifying local bacterial isolates and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns to avoid irrational antibiotic use, especially in settings where unguided management occurs and febrile illnesses are predominant.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A hospital-based prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2011 to February 2012. Febrile children were serially recruited and demographic and clinical data were collected using a standardized data collection tool. A blood culture was performed and identification of the isolates was undertaken using in-house biochemical tests. Susceptibility to common antibiotics was investigated using the disc diffusion methods.

RESULTS

Of the 1081 children admitted during the study period, 317 (29.3%) met the inclusion criteria and were recruited, of whom 195 (61.5%) and 122 (38.5%) were male and female respectively. The median age was 18 months with an interquartile range of 9 to 36 months. Of the 317 children, 251 (79.2%) were below or equal to 36 months of age. The prevalence of bacteremia was 6.6%. A higher prevalence of bacteraemia was observed in children below 36 months than in those ≥ 36 months (7.5% vs. 3.0%, p = 0.001). Predictors of bacteraemia were an axillary temperature of >38.5 °C (OR =7, 95% CI = 2.2 - 14.8, p-value = 0.0001), a positive malaria slide (OR =5, 95% CI = 3.0 - 21.2, p-value = 0.0001) and a high neutrophils' count (OR =21 95% CI = 5.6 - 84, p-value = 0.0001). Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae accounted for 7 (33.3%) and 6 (28.6%) of all the isolates respectively. Others gram-negatives bacteria were Citrobacter spp 2 (9.5%), Enterobacter spp 1 (4.25%), Pseudomonas spp 2 (9.5%), Proteus spp 1 (4.25%) and Salmonella spp 1 (4.25%). These isolates were highly resistant to ampicillin (95%), co-trimoxazole (90%), tetracycline (90%), gentamicin (80%), augmentin (80%), chloramphenicol (65%), ceftriaxone (35%), cefotaxime (35%) ciprofloxacin (30%), amikacin (30%), ceftazidime (25%) and norfloxacine (10%).

CONCLUSION

Multi-resistant gram-negative bacteria are the commonest cause of bacteremia in under-fives attending the Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania. A high body temperature, a positive malaria slide and a high absolute neutrophils' count were all independent risk factors found to predict bacteremia. A higher mortality rate was observed in children with bacteraemia. Continuous epidemiological surveillance should be conducted so that a proper and effective antibiotics management can be instituted, especially in children with a high grade fever, a positive malaria slide and a high neutrophils' count.