City warns of dehydration from diarrhoea

THE City of Cape Town has cautioned parents to be aware of the symptoms of dehydration if a young child contracts diarrhoea, as the surge season hits.

In a statement, the City said diarrhoea remains one of the biggest threats to children under 5 and is one of the leading causes of death in this age group in developing countries.

Mayco member for community service and health Zahid Badroodien said: “In Cape Town we have made significant strides in reducing the mortality rate due to dehydration and diarrhoea, but deaths from diarrhoea are preventable if the warning signs are picked up early enough and fast, appropriate action is taken.”

In Cape Town there are, on average, between 600 and 700 cases of diarrhoea in children under 5 reported each week. Approximately 8% of the cases present with some level of dehydration.

The City said between November and May the number of diarrhoea cases typically increased as the warmer weather promoted the spread of germs. Symptoms of diarrhoea included loose/watery stools, nausea, vomiting and fever.

Oral rehydration therapy can be performed at home using a litre of clean water, six level teaspoons of sugar and half a level teaspoon of salt. This solution can be given to a child to prevent dehydration caused by diarrhoea. |