Sero-Epidemiology of Rotavirus Gastroenteritis in Children in Ilorin, Kwara State

Rotavirus is responsible for the most severe dehydrating diarrhea among young children due to gastroenteritis. In this study, we aimed to ascertain the occurrence of childhood gastroenteritis caused by Rotavirus among infants and young children who are younger than 5 years of age in Ilorin, Kwara State and determined the risk factors posing the challenges to be susceptible to diarrhea associated with rotavirus in Ilorin, Kwara State. Diarrhea stool samples were collected from children who passed watery stools, who met predetermined inclusion criteria and who presented at the study hospitals Viz: General Hospital and Specialist Hospital Alagbado and Children Specialist Hospital, Igboro. All within Kwara State either on outpatient care basis or those admitted into the pediatric ward. Sample of stool habouring rotavirus antigens was detected by commercial Rotavirus IgM ELISA kit to target recent infections among the participants. Out of three hundred (300) stool samples that were collected from children suffering from acute diarrhea, a total number of eighty-six (86) were found to be Rotavirus positive (28.7 %) and two hundred and fourteen (214) were found to be negative (71.3%). The age group 3-5 years, showed the highest prevalence rate which is in line with some research findings that attribute this age range with certain feeding habits and cultural practices, predisposing them to gastroenteritis. It is therefore advised that parents and guardian alike should ensure that special care is given to children, with emphasis on their feeding habits and sanitation

Early worsening of diabetic retinopathy due to intensive glycaemic control

The prevalence of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy is increasing around the world. Glycaemic control is important in reducing the long-term risk of complications of diabetes, however intensive glycaemic control, particularly in patients with longstanding and poorly controlled diabetes, is associated with the risk of early worsening of diabetic retinopathy and vision loss. We present two clinical cases to illustrate the presentation of early worsening and to highlight a role for intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapies in ameliorating this phenomenon, as well as a review of the current understanding of this phenomenon. We emphasise the importance of identifying individuals at risk of early worsening of diabetic retinopathy and recommend regular ophthalmological review during the period of intensive glycaemic control to ensure optimal visual outcomes

Acknowledgements i Acknowledgements

triggered my progress in English, taught me how to think logically and present material precisely. He also impressed us about the importance of basics. He often says: A good achievement is always based on a strong foundation. Besides taking care of our study, he also guided us to love the poor and be concerned about the less fortunate in the world. I would also present my great thanks to my parents. Without their patience, support, encouragement and love, I could not have any accomplishment. Special gratitude is due to Professor M. H. Tseng in CSMU, Professor G. S. Huan