Active maternal cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the bedrock of congenital CMV with its debilitating sequelae. Information on socio-biologic predictors of active maternal infection in southwest Nigeria is lacking. However, modifying locality-specific risk factors could reduce the burden of CMV. The aim of the study is to identify the socio-biologic determinants for active maternal CMV infection in a Nigerian setting. Using a cross-sectional design, ELISA kits were employed to quantify the anti-CMV IgG and IgM antibodies in the sera of consecutive antenatal attendees at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Nigeria. Among the respondents, 23 (12.4%) were seropositive for both anti-CMV IgG and IgM antibodies. The regression analysis showed that the likelihood of being seropositive for both anti-CMV IgG and IgM antibodies was predicted by having a child less than 5 years old (adjusted OR: 5.53; 95% CI: 1.08 -28.30; p = 0.04), while those who were skilled workers were least likely to be seropositive for both antibodies (adjusted OR: 0.06; 95% CI: 0.01 -0.95; p = 0.04). Also, infection with cytomegalovirus was associated with pre-eclampsia (adjusted OR: 0.03; 95% CI: 0.002 -0.41; p = 0.01). High prevalence of active maternal CMV infection was noted from the study, and this was associated with pre-eclampsia and caring for children under-5. Educating pregnant non-immune women about CMV and its prevention, coupled with the improvement in socio-economic status of the populace can reduce the burden in low-resource settings.

Background: Severe neonatal jaundice (NNJ) remains a leading cause of preventable brain damage, mental handicap, physical disabilities, and early death among infants. Methods: Using a descriptive cross-sectional study design, information was gathered using a structured, pretested questionnaire from 518 pregnant women who attended the antenatal clinic at a tertiary Hospital in Southwest Nigeria. Results: Most (77%) of the respondents have heard about NNJ prior the survey. Most respondents (69.5%) demonstrated poor knowledge of the causes of NNJ. The majority, 98.4% had good attitude toward treatment of NNJ. Most respondents (72.1%) demonstrated poor knowledge of the correct treatment of NNJ. A quarter of the respondents knew no danger sign of NNJ. Conclusion: There is serious knowledge gap among the respondents about the causes, treatment, dangers signs and complications of NNJ. There is need for increased awareness campaign using every available means of reaching women of reproductive age group to reduce the consequences of this common neonatal problem.

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