Detection of Typhoid infection in Northern Technical University students and its correlation with blood groups

Merie, Ghufran Mohammed Sadee; Al-Hashimi, Hadeel Tahseen; Mustafa, Mustafa M.; Saadi, Ali M

doi:10.21608/jbaar.2025.350762.1137

Detection of Typhoid infection in Northern Technical University students and its correlation with blood groups

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of Medical Laboratory Technologies, Mosul Medical Technical Institute, Northern Technical University, Iraq

² Department of Animal Production Techniques, Technical Agricultural College, Northern Technical University, Iraq

10.21608/jbaar.2025.350762.1137

Abstract

Background: In many developing nations, typhoid fever is still a serious public health concern, especially for students and young adults. Blood group antigens, which can alter host–pathogen interactions, are one of several factors that may affect a person's vulnerability to typhoid infection. Objective: This study aimed to find out how common typhoid infection is among students and investigate how it relates to the blood types of ABO and Rh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a group of students with febrile illness. Blood samples were collected and tested using the Widal test to detect serous Salmonella typhi. Blood classification was performed using standard agglomeration techniques. Results: 50 blood samples were collected, 21 (42%) female and 29 (58%) male. 34 students (68%) and three students (6%) had Salmonella typhi and Salmonella para-typhi infections. Group A+B+O individuals, especially females, appeared more susceptible to severe typhoid infections. Group AB showed limited infections, primarily mild in males, suggesting a potential protective effect. Conclusion: According to this study, there is a substantial relationship between the prevalence of typhoid infections among college students and particular blood types, where Blood group and gender influence Typhoid infection susceptibility and severity. Group B+ve females and A+ve males showed notable infection patterns, while other groups had lower or no infection rates. Comprehending these trends might facilitate the creation of focused health interventions and safeguards against typhoid infections in this demographic. To investigate the underlying causes of this connection, further investigation may be necessary.

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