Trace Element Status and Immune Markers in Children with Recurrent Respiratory Infections in Adamawa State

Recurrent respiratory tract infections in children are a major cause of paediatric morbidity in Nigeria, particularly in the North East geopolitical zone, and trace element deficiencies may compromise immune defences against such infections. This study evaluates plasma zinc, selenium, and copper concentrations alongside lymphocyte subset counts in children aged 2 to 10 years with recurrent respiratory tract infections in Adamawa State, North East Nigeria. A case-control design was employed, recruiting 90 children with at least four confirmed respiratory infections in the preceding year and 90 healthy controls. Plasma trace elements were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. CD4 and CD8 lymphocyte counts were determined by flow cytometry. Nutritional status, dietary diversity, and socioeconomic data were also collected. The study hypothesises that trace element deficiencies, particularly of zinc and selenium, are more prevalent among children with recurrent infections and correlate with reduced lymphocyte counts. Findings will provide evidence for targeted micronutrient supplementation programmes in paediatric primary care settings across Adamawa State. Keywords: trace elements, zinc, selenium, respiratory infections, children, Adamawa State.