Co-morbidity of Human Immunodeficiency virus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis among asymptomatic individuals in southern Taraba State, Nigeria

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) co-infection is a major health problem in many parts of the world. But the prevalence varies from one place to another. This study was designed to assess prevalence of HIV and MTB co-morbidity and to determine its risk factors. It was a cross-based study conducted in January, 2024. The study included asymptomatic individuals between age 0-65years. Method: A total of hundreds (100) blood samples were collected from asymptomatic individuals, who filled structured questionnaires, gave consent were selected by random sampling techniques. The samples were analysed using Accu-Tell® TB Rapid Test Cassette and Determine HIV-1/2 Ag/Ab Combo Rapid Test kit. Results: The prevalence of HIV was 2.0%. Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection had a prevalence of 4.0%. Males within age 16-25, with secondary education, single, untested for TB, and alcohol drinkers showed higher tuberculosis prevalence compared to others. This is possibly linked to shared local alcoholic beverage consumption. HIV showed equal prevalence across genders and certain age groups, with higher prevalence in rural areas, individuals untested for HIV, and those with one sexual partner, reflecting limited healthcare access and awareness challenges. Conclusion: Surprisingly, the study found that no co-infection existed between HIV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis among asymptomatic individuals with a prevalence of 0.0%. Despite limitations, such as a lack of universal sputum testing and a small sample size, this study has demonstrated that TB can be detected in blood and has contributed to knowledge and provided valuable documentation of co-morbidity patterns in Southern Taraba State.