AN ASSAY OF THE PRESENCE OF SALMONELLA TYPHI IN HUMAN SERUM OF STUDENTS OF IMO STATE POLYTECHNIC OMUMA

ABSTRACT Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, remains a major public health challenge in developing countries, particularly among young adults in tertiary institutions. This study assessed the presence of Salmonella typhi in the human serum of students of Imo State Polytechnic, Omuma, with the aim of determining seroprevalence, identifying risk factors, and providing baseline data for preventive interventions. A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted, and 120 students were randomly selected for the study. Venous blood samples were collected, and serum was separated and analyzed using the Widal agglutination test to detect antibodies against O and H antigens of Salmonella typhi. Demographic and behavioral data were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicated an overall seroprevalence of 31.7%, with higher prevalence among males (35.3%) and students aged 21–25 years (35.7%). Significant antibody titers were detected in most seropositive samples, with the majority showing titers of 1:160 and above, indicative of recent or repeated exposure. Risk factors such as consumption of untreated water and frequent patronage of roadside food vendors were associated with higher seropositivity. These findings suggest that typhoid fever remains prevalent among students and that environmental and behavioral factors contribute significantly to transmission. In conclusion, the study highlights the need for improved water quality, enhanced food hygiene, routine health education, and periodic surveillance to reduce exposure to Salmonella typhi within the institution. The study also demonstrates the utility of serum-based assays in resource-limited settings and provides baseline data for public health interventions aimed at controlling typhoid fever among tertiary institution students.