Immuno-Positivity of HIV among Long Distance Drivers, Short Distance Drivers and Ordinary Drivers in Rivers State
K. F. Williams *
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Rivers State University, Rivers State, Nigeria.
D. M. Chioma
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In this study, the immuno-positivity of HIV among long, short distance drivers and ordinary drivers in different motor parks in Choba and Rumuokoro community Rivers State was investigated for their retroviral status. A total of 81 commercial drivers between the ages 30-56 while 15 ordinary drivers between the ages 35-60 years old volunteered for the screening.Questionnaires were administered to the participants before their blood samples were aseptically collected. HIV screening was carried out using Determine HIV ½ strips. The results showed that a 40-year old commercial driver (3%) in the long distance driver category tested positive for HIV 2. However, in the short distance driver category, two commercial drivers aged 38 and 41 respectively (4%) tested positive for HIV 2. The ordinary drivers were all tested negative for HIV 2. The Level of HIV awareness among Long, short distance drivers and ordinary drivers is 84%. Sixteen are aware of all routes of transmission while 16% have very little or no Knowledge of the non-sexual routes. Response from the questionnaire showed a high level (84%) of awareness of HIV infection. Due to the nature of their occupation, commercial drivers are always exposed to multiple sex partners. Therefore, HIV awareness, prevention and treatment should be vigorously encouraged among commercial drivers.
Keywords: Awareness, HIV, long and short distance drivers, ordinary drivers, questionnaires