Fact 6: Prevention Tactics
One of the most effective measures to prevent diarrhea in children revolves around personal hygiene, especially hand hygiene. Young children are naturally curious, often exploring their surroundings using their hands. This makes them vulnerable to picking up germs that can cause gastrointestinal upsets. Regular and thorough handwashing, particularly before meals and after bathroom breaks, can drastically reduce this risk. Using soap and scrubbing all parts of the hands, including between the fingers and under the nails, for at least 20 seconds is imperative.
In the fight against diarrhea, vaccinations have emerged as a game-changer. Certain forms of diarrhea, especially those caused by the rotavirus, can be effectively countered by timely vaccination. The rotavirus vaccine has led to a sharp decline in hospitalizations related to diarrhea. Ensuring that children get their vaccines as per the recommended schedule can offer them robust protection against specific diarrhea-causing pathogens.
Given that many diarrhea cases result from contaminated food and water, being cautious about what children consume becomes essential. This involves ensuring that food is well-cooked, particularly meat and seafood. Raw and undercooked foods can harbor harmful bacteria that can trigger diarrhea. Likewise, ensuring safe drinking water is a must. In areas where water quality is questionable, boiling or using water purifiers can offer an added layer of protection.
While home settings allow for controlled environments, traveling can expose children to new pathogens. Being aware of health advisories, especially in unfamiliar locales, is beneficial. If there’s an ongoing outbreak or if certain foods and water sources are deemed risky, being informed helps parents make safer choices for their children. Packing a hand sanitizer, especially one with a high alcohol content, can be a good preventive measure during travels.
Not all cases of diarrhea are infectious. Some might result from food intolerances or allergies. If a child consistently develops diarrhea after consuming specific foods, it could indicate a dietary intolerance like lactose intolerance or a food allergy. Being aware of these and avoiding trigger foods can prevent recurrent episodes of diarrhea. (6)
