Prevalence of Vibrio Cholerae and Vibrio Species from Different Sources in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

The distribution of Vibrio cholerae and non-cholera Vibrio species from different sources from five localities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria was investigated in this study. A total of 44 stool samples, 22 freshwater samples, 60 brackish water samples and 64 seafood samples (crabs, shrimps and fishes) were collected from January to April, 2019 for the purpose of V. cholerae prevalence study. Samples were transported to the laboratory using Car-Blair’s medium. This was followed by samples enrichment in 1% alkaline peptone water and pour plating on thiosulphate citrate bile-salt sucrose (TCBS) agar. Characteristic yellow colonies were subjected to further biochemical and physiological characterization to further identify V. cholerae. Antibiotics susceptibility patterns for isolated V. cholerae strains were investigated. Furthermore, water samples (fresh and brackish) and seafood samples were collected on a monthly basis to ascertain the effect of seasons (dry and wet months) on the distribution of Vibrio spp. A total of 16 (36.36%) stools samples were positive for V. cholerae. In addition, 12 (54.55%) of freshwater samples, 28 (46.67%) of brackish water samples and 22 (34.38%) of seafood samples were contaminated with V. cholerae. The monthly mean values of Vibrio spp. from environmental sources showed statistically significant difference (P<0.05) between the dry months (low rainfall) and wet months (frequent rainfall). Higher average values were observed during the dry months. The result of the antibiotics sensitivity test showed all V. cholerae strains were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin and pefloxacin while varying degree sensitivities were observed in tetracycline and augmentin. Cholera and other non-cholera Vibrio spp gastrointestinal infections are still a major concern to the health of the public. Local and regional governments should enforce and promote the need for personal and communal hygienic practices.