An outbreak of Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, has been confirmed in Kano State, Nigeria, affecting poultry such as layers, ducks, guinea fowls, and turkeys. This highly contagious virus poses a serious threat to poultry farms and, in rare cases, can infect humans through direct contact with sick birds, contaminated environments, […]
Author Archives: Ifeoma Ofor
01
Dec
Dec
Contagion is the process by which infectious diseases spread through populations. It describes the way viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens move from one person to another, often through what looks like minor interactions but have big consequences. Contagion has a ripple effect: a single point of exposure can lead to a very widespread within a […]
23
Nov
Nov
Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, is a parasitic infection caused by Onchocerca volvulus, a nematode. It is gotten when infected blackflies (Simulium species) bites a person, during a blood meal. These species breed near fast-flowing rivers and streams. As a result, people who live in riverine areas like Rivers, Cross river, Akwaibom states in […]
23
Nov
Nov
Diagnosing Onchocerca volvulus, the causative agent of onchocerciasis, requires the combination of clinical presentations and laboratory techniques. Most times, physical signs, such as the presence of microfilariae in the eyes or swollen and hyperpigmented legs serve as initial diagnostic clues. However, Laboratory tests are important for identifying and confirming active infections, assessing the intensity of […]
03
Nov
Nov
What is Otitis Media Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear – you know the space behind the eardrum. It’s common, especially in children, and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or, in rarer cases, fungi. Otitis media happens when the Eustachian tube (which connects the middle ear to the back of the […]
01
Nov
Nov
Every year, more than 200,000 deaths are recorded in Sub-Saharan Africa due to Schistosomiasis caused by these trematodes. Different species of this trematode exist, and they include Schistosoma japonicum, Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni. But today, our focus will be on Schistosoma haematobium. S.haematobium is endemic in 54 countries and is commonly termed a blood […]
Fastidious bacteria are the “high-maintenance” organisms of the microbial world. They demand specific nutrients and environmental conditions to grow. These organisms may need enriched media, particular gases (e.g., CO₂), specific pH, or temperature for optimal growth. This makes their isolation and identification more challenging than those of obligate organisms. Unfortunately, they are not just difficult […]
23
Oct
Oct
Understanding Candida Infections in Men, Women, and Children Candida is not a name that might come up in a casual conversation, but its impact on our health is on a large scale. It is found in the human body as a normal flora, existing in balance with other microorganisms. However, under the right conditions, Candida […]
Blog, Microbiology
The role of Schistosoma haematobium Ova in the Diagnosis of Urinary Schistosomiasis
19
Oct
Oct
What is Schistosoma haematobium? Schistosoma haematobium is a parasitic flatworm that causes a disease called urinary schistosomiasis, or bilharzia. This infection is common in parts of Africa and the Middle East, especially in areas with freshwater bodies like lakes, rivers, and ponds. The parasite is found more in these environments, making people who rely on […]
12
Oct
Oct
Introduction Candida intertrigo – sounds mouthful and strange right? However, it is a common skin infection caused by an equally common Candida species – Candida albicans. It usually happens in the areas of the body that are moist, warm, and where folds rub together—places like the armpits, groin, under the breasts, and between the toes […]