Background and study aim: In Nigeria, there is paucity of information on the epidemiology of infections due to Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) especially among patients with febrile illness. Cases of febrile illness are usually associated with malaria and typhoid fever without considering the possibility of viral aetiology. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of CHIKV infections among febrile illness presumptively diagnosed of malaria in Ogun State, Nigeria.
Patients and Methods: A total of 165 patients (94 females and 71 males) were recruited for the study. The presence of malarial parasite was determined by microscopic examination of blood films. Sera were tested for presence of CHIKV immunoglobin (Ig) IgM and IgG antibodies using CHIKV rapid diagnostic test kit.
Results: Out of the 165 patients screened, 102 (61.8%) were positive for malarial parasite, 18 (10.9%), 5 (3.0%) and 4 (2.4%) were positive for the presence of CHIKV IgM Ab only, CHIKV IgG Ab only, and both, respectively. A statistically significant association was observed between CHIKV IgM antibody positivity and malaria. Participants who tested positive for CHIKV IgG antibody only were all negative for malaria. Meanwhile, participants positive for both CHIKV IgM and IgG antibodies did not test positive for malaria. Lack of knowledge of CHIKV, presence of mosquitos in the environment, presence of stagnant water sources around, lack of routine medical check-ups and self-medication practices are some of the risk factors identified in this study.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of considering CHIKV infection alongside malaria in febrile patients, particularly in malaria-endemic regions.