Prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes among Pregnant Women Attending Jos University Teaching Hospital, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: This study determined the prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes among pregnant women with a history of spontaneous abortion or preterm delivery attending Jos University Teaching Hospital, Plateau                      State, Nigeria, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Study Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Place and Duration of Study: Jos University Teaching Hospital, from February 2025 to June 2026. Methodology: Ninety specimens comprising blood, urine, and endocervical swabs were collected from eligible pregnant women. Blood was centrifuged to obtain plasma, and all specimens were aliquoted and stored until analysis. An ELISA targeting antibodies to listeriolysin O was performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Genomic DNA was extracted using the EasyPure Bacteria Genomic DNA Kit, followed by real-time PCR targeting the hly and iap genes. Data were summarised descriptively, and associations were assessed at a 5% significance level. Results: ELISA yielded 72 positive results among 90 specimens (80.0%), whereas real-time PCR confirmed Listeria monocytogenes DNA in 7 of 90 specimens (7.8%). Plasma samples showed the highest optical density and calculated concentrations, while many endocervical samples demonstrated moderate ELISA reactivity. Gel electrophoresis showed amplified products in lanes 3, 4, and 5. Conclusion: Evidence of Listeria monocytogenes was detected in the selected study population. The substantial difference between ELISA and PCR results indicates that serological reactivity should be interpreted cautiously and supported by molecular confirmation.