ABSTRACT
Transfusion usually is a life-saving therapeutic intervention, however many preventable errors may make this a hazardous procedure. Human cytomegalovirus, otherwise called Human Herpes Virus (HHV) type 5, has over the years attained public health significance, it is a cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnancy, immunocompromised patients like recipients of organ transplants, HIV-infected persons, cancer patients on therapy and neonates. Cytomegalovirus is transmissible via blood transfusion and other parenteral routes. It is however not routinely screened for in blood donors in Nigeria. Prevalence rates in some parts of Nigeria ranged from 92 to 95 percent. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and associated factors of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection among blood donors in Minna, North Central Nigeria. This is a hospital based cross-sectional study. A total of 345 consenting blood donors were recruited into the study. Screening for CMV antibodies (IgM and IgG) was done using ELISA kit (DIALAB Austria). Qualitative methods were employed through key informant interviews. As for the quantitative aspect, each blood donor was administered a questionnaire to obtain information regarding socio-demographic and socio-economic characteristics and practices. The data obtained was subjected to descriptive and analytical statistical analyses using Epi Info version 3.5.4. Chi square was used to determine associations. Significant associations were presumed if p<0.05. Majority were males 336 (97.4%), with a mean age of 32.4� 8.5 years 139 (40.3%), married 230 (66.7%), had post-secondary education 146 (42.6%), whose monthly earning ranged from N18000 to N 35000 136(40.6%). Also, majority were interviewed at the General Hospital Minna 290 (84%). The prevalence of CMV infection was found to be 96.2%. The vii prevalence of anti-CMV IgG and IgM antibodies were found to be 96.2% and 2.6% respectively. Of the CMV seropositive blood donors, 55.6% were anaemic (PCV<36%), but 66.7% and 77.8% had normal WBC and platelet counts respectively. Majority of the blood donors had had contact with blood in the past. The seroprevalence of CMV is high in this environment with a significant proportion of individuals who are capable of transmitting CMV infection to blood recipients. The prevalence rate is consistent with published data from other parts of Nigeria and across the globe. Anaemia is significantly associated with CMV infection (P=0.02). Prospective blood donors for immunocompromised recipients should be screened for CMV. Key words: Prevalence, Cytomegalovirus, blood donors, Minna.