A RETROSPECTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY INVESTIGATING THE PREVALENCE OF COVID-19 AND TB COINFECTION IN PATIENTS IN KWAZULU-NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA.

Vuyo  Hlabisa; Ziningi Nobuhle Jaya

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v4i6.416

Authors

Vuyo Hlabisa Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Natural Science, Mangosuthu University of Technology, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Ziningi Nobuhle Jaya Mangosuthu University of Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v4i6.416

Keywords:

Turberculosis, co-infection, Covid-19, prevalence, correlation, age group

Abstract

Background:
The co-occurrence of tuberculosis (TB) and Covid-19 pose significant challenges to public
health systems worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of TB and Covid-
19 co-infection, explore the correlation between TB status and Covid-19 results and examine
the distribution of co-infection across different age groups in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Methods:
A retrospective analysis was conducted using data retrieved from a laboratory database,
including 1241 TB patient results between April 2020 and April 2021. Diagnostic methods
for TB included microscopy, culture, GeneXpert, and line probe. Covid-19 test results were
categorized as positive, negative, or inconclusive. Statistical analysis, including statistical
significance tests, was performed to assess the correlation between TB status, Covid-19 co-
infection, and age groups.
Results:
Among the TB patients, 3.95% were diagnosed using microscopy, 7.01% using culture,
88.80% using GeneXpert, and 0.24% using line probe. Out of the 1241 TB patients, 50%
were males and 49% were females. Among the tested patients, 84% tested negative for Covid-19, 14.5% tested positive, and 1% had inconclusive findings. The statistical
significance analysis indicated no significant correlation between TB status and Covid-19 co-
infection (p > 0.05). However, a significant association was observed between age groups and Covid-19 co-infection (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:

Although no significant correlation was found between TB status and Covid-19 co-infection, there was a significant association between age groups and co-infection rates. These findings highlight the need for tailored screening, prevention, and treatment strategies considering different age groups. The study contributes to the existing literature and can inform healthcare policies and interventions related to TB and Covid-19 co-infection.
Recommendation:
To address the co-infection, we recommend strengthening surveillance, enhancing awareness, conducting further research, improving infection control, and developing integrated healthcare approaches.

Author Biographies

Vuyo Hlabisa, Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Natural Science, Mangosuthu University of Technology, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

A dedicated individual who has recently completed a four-year degree in Bachelor of Health Sciences, specializing in Medical Laboratory Science. Mr Hlabisa has a passion for healthcare and a keen interest in diagnostic medicine with skills and knowledge in laboratory testing, analysis, and research. During his academic journey, he exhibited exceptional academic performance, consistently achieving high grades and demonstrating a strong grasp of theoretical concepts and practical applications. He developed a keen interest in research in infectious diseases and hopes to continue to pursue this passion shortly. He is excited to make a meaningful contribution to the field of medical laboratory science.

Ziningi Nobuhle Jaya, Mangosuthu University of Technology

An accomplished and dedicated professional in the field of medical technology and education. Ms. Jaya has a strong background in biomedical sciences and has made significant contributions to both the healthcare industry and academia. As a qualified medical technologist, she possesses extensive expertise in performing and interpreting a wide range of diagnostic tests, employing advanced laboratory techniques and technologies. Driven by a passion and desire to contribute to the field she is involved in multidisciplinary research in medical science and public health. She is passionate about teaching and mentoring undergraduate students and young people to pursue careers in healthcare and research.