हिंदी
Diarrhoeal disease is the third leading cause of death in children under five years old, claiming approximately 443,832 lives annually worldwide, despite being both preventable and treatable. Diarrhoea can last several days, leading to a dangerous loss of water and salts essential for survival.
In India, childhood diarrhoeal diseases remain a major killer, accounting for 5.8 percent of under-five deaths (Cause of Death Statistics 2017-19, Sample Registration System of the Registrar General of India). Around 50,000 children die from diarrhoea each year in the country.
Diarrhoea is defined as passing three or more loose or liquid stools per day (or more frequently than is normal for the individual). Passing formed stools frequently is not diarrhoea, nor is the passing of loose, pasty stools by breastfed babies. Diarrhoea can be caused by various bacterial, viral, and parasitic organisms, most of which are spread through water contaminated with feces.
During a diarrhoeal episode, water and electrolytes (sodium, chloride, potassium, and bicarbonate) are lost through liquid stools, vomit, sweat, urine, and breathing. Preventing diarrhoea reduces the risk of dehydration.
Steps to Prevent Diarrhoea
- Ensure access to safe drinking water, such as boiled water, using water filters, or chlorinating water, especially during monsoons.
- Use clean and functional toilets.
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Exclusively breastfeed babies for the first six months of life.
- Maintain good personal and food hygiene.
- Administer three doses of the Rotavirus vaccine.
Steps to Treat Diarrhoea
- Stay hydrated by drinking ORS and plenty of fluids.
- Take zinc supplements.
- Eat nutrient-rich food.
- Rest and avoid strenuous exercise.
- Avoid over-the-counter drugs and consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist.
