Seroprevalence of Human Immunodifficiency Virus (HIV) amongst inmates of Kaduna prison, Nigeria

A cross sectional period prevalence study was carried out amongst inmates of Convict Prison, Kaduna Nigeria to determine their HIV status and provide baseline data. Out of the 100 samples collected, 12 (12 %) were positive for HIV with the highest proportion (41.7 %) occurring in the 20-29 yrs age bracket and lowest prevalence of 8.3% in younger inmates below 20 yrs and those above 50 yrs. Infection was detected in both sexes, but was greater in males (91.7%). The mean age of the inmates was 32 yrs, with a range 18-59yrs and sex ratio of 49:1 (male: female). The adoption of HIV counseling and screening (at the point of entering, incarceration and exit) is recommended. Provision of specific HIV/AIDS preventive measures, care and treatment should be part of routine medical practice for inmates irrespective of the diagnosis at presentation. Key words: HIV seroprevalence, Convict Prison inmates, baseline data, Kaduna Nigeri