With summer in full swing parents and caregivers have been urged to make sure that children are protected from diarrhoea.
In a statement issued by the City of Cape Town recently it said as temperatures rise, so too does the risk of diarrhoea – especially for young children. The hot weather over summer, the City said, promotes the spread of germs, and this increases the number of children who get sick with diarrhoea and dehydration, especially during the month of November and May – which is also known as “surge season”.
Dehydration is a common side effect of diarrhoeal disease and can be dangerous especially for babies and young children, the City said, adding that healthcare workers are on high alert at this time of the year.
Francie Higham, Mayco member for community services and health, said that prevention, however, starts at home.
“We ask parents to stay alert, know the signs of dehydration and take simple steps to protect their children. Prevention remains the simplest way to protect your children and that starts with clean water, regular handwashing, and proper food handling,” she said.
Prevention and early home care remain the most powerful tools, she said.
Parents and caregivers can reduce the risk through the following daily habits.
- Use safe, clean water for drinking, cooking and cleaning bottles;
- Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of life;
- Keep food covered and discard leftovers that have been standing for long periods, and
- Dispose of nappies safely and keep play areas clean.
The City also said it is vital to wash hands with soap and clean water, before preparing food, feeding a child, and after using the toilet or changing nappies.
In the event that a child has diarrhoea, it is essential to increase their fluid intake, to prevent dehydration, the City said.
An oral rehydration solution or the sugar-salt solution can be prepared at home by mixing one litre of clean, safe water with eight level teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of salt. Stir until completely dissolved and give the child small sips often, even if they vomit, keep offering slowly.
For mothers that are breastfeeding, continue to do so as it is the best fluid for the baby.
Seek help if you notice any of the following danger signs.
- Child is very thirsty or unable to drink;
- Sunken eyes or dry mouth;
- Few or no tears when crying;
- Drowsiness, weakness, or irritability;
- Blood in the stool;
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than two days, and
- Less or no urine (dry nappies)
Caregivers are also encouraged to ensure that all children are up to date with their routine immunisations. In addition, Rotarix drops is particularly important as we enter the surge season, to help protect children under six months against severe diarrhoeal disease caused by rotavirus, the City said.
