Seroprevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among Newly Admitted Students of Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria

Background and Aim: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's natural defence system. Without a strong immune system, the body finds it difficult to activate its defence mechanism. The last stage of HIV infection is Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Epidemiological Survey of HIV, the causative agent of AIDS, was investigated among newly admitted students of Benue State University, Makurdi. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of HIV antibodies among newly admitted students of the University. Methodology: A total of 500 freshly admitted Students to Benue State University were screened using structurally designed questionnaires and blood samples. Out of the 500 Students screened, 295(59%) were male and 205(41%) were female. Alere DetermineTM HIV-1/2 Test cards, HIV -1/2 Stat- Pak® Assay and Trinity Biotech UnigoldTM were used in a stepwise order for the detection of HIV antibodies in the blood samples of these fresh students. Results and Discussion: The overall prevalence rate of HIV was 32 (6.4%). The age group 21-25 years had the highest prevalence of HIV 19 (3.8%) compared to other age groups. Human Immunodeficiency Virus antibodies were more prevalent among females 19 (3.8%) than their male counterparts 13 (2.6%). Human Immunodeficiency Virus prevalence was higher among married students 20 (4.0%) than single students 12 (2.4%). The Chi-Square (χ2) analysis using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21.0 showed that there was no significant difference (P>0.05) between the age groups, sex, marital status, occupation and the prevalence of HIV among fresh students. Conclusion and Recommendation: The study shows that those having multiple sexual partners, unprotected sexual contact and a history of Sexually Transmitted Diseases, indicate significant differences (P<0.05) respectively. This study confirmed the presence of HIV antibodies among freshly admitted students. We therefore recommend free HIV screening and counselling services in all institutions of higher learning in the country.