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Article History

Received: 20 June 2025

Accepted: 28 June 2026

First Online: 8 July 2026

Declarations

:

: The study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Ethical Review Committee of the Katsina State Ministry of Health, Nigeria (reference number: MOH/ADM/SUB/1152/1/987). Written informed consent was obtained from all patients prior to sample collection, which was conducted in compliance with applicable guidelines and regulations. For participants older than seven years, assent was obtained in addition to written permission from their guardians. Guardians were fully informed about the study’s purpose and assured that participation was anonymous, voluntary, and based on informed consent.

: The authors declare no competing interests.

: Not applicable.