Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: Foodborne diseases are a global health problem, and Salmonella species are currently the most common cause of Foodborne infections in developing countries. Salmonella Typhi carriers perpetuate the transmission of typhoid fever. This study determined the prevalence of Salmonella Typhi carriers and identifies associated factors among commercial food handlers in Sokoto metropolis, North-West Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 380 food handlers selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and laboratory analysis of stool samples. Isolation of Salmonella Typhi was done using standard culture techniques, including Selenite F broth enrichment and selective media. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression at a 5% level of significance.
Results: The prevalence of Salmonella Typhi carriers was 6.57 % (25/380; 95% CI: 4.6%–10.1%). The majority of participants were young adults with a mean age of 27.06 ± 9.16 years, and a predominance of females (63.7%). Most respondents (90.0%) had no prior training in food hygiene. Bivariate analysis showed significant associations between Salmonella carriage and both hygiene knowledge (p=0.003) and educational status (p=0.003). However, multivariate logistic regression identified educational status as the only independent predictor of Salmonella carrier state (OR=6.142, 95% CI: 1.605–23.495, p=0.008).
Conclusions: The relatively high prevalence of Salmonella Typhi carriers among food handlers signifies a significant public health problem. Lower educational status was the strongest predictor of Salmonella Typhi carriage. Strengthening food safety training, routine medical screening enforcement and improving regulatory procedures of food establishments are critical to reduce transmission.

Key words: Salmonella Typhi, prevalence, food handlers, public health, Nigeria