Prevalence of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Diabetic Foot Wounds in Selected Health Facilities in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Diabetic Foot Wounds in Selected Health Facilities across Three Senatorial Zones in Benue State, Nigeria. Diabetic foot wounds (DFWs) remain one of the most severe complications of diabetes mellitus, contributing significantly to prolonged hospitalization, lower-limb amputation, and increased mortality. A total of 420 wound samples were collected and analysed using standard culture-based techniques. Out of the 420 samples analysed, 57 isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae were identified, representing a prevalence of 13.6% (57/420). Statistical analysis showed significant associations between infection and age (χ²= 9.081, p = 0.028), sex (χ² = 4.651, p = 0.033), and wound duration (χ² = 7.185, p = 0.028). However, no statistically significant difference was observed across the three senatorial zones (χ² = 0.502, p = 0.478), indicating a relatively uniform distribution of the pathogen across the study area. The findings indicate that K. pneumoniae is an important pathogen in diabetic foot wound infections in Benue State. Continuous microbiological surveillance, improved infection control measures, and rational antibiotic use are therefore necessary to reduce complications associated with diabetic foot infections.