Community case management of childhood diarrhea in a setting with declining use of oral rehydration therapy: findings from cross-sectional studies among primary household caregivers, Kenya, 2007
Olson, C.K.; Blum, L.S.; Patel, K.N.; Oria, P.A.; Feikin, D.R.; Laserson, K.F.; Wamae, A.W.; Bartlett, A.V.; Breiman, R.F.; Ram, P.K.
American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 85(6): 1134-1140
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9637 PMID: 22144458 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2011.11-0178Document Number: 227914
We sought to determine factors associated with appropriate diarrhea case management in Kenya. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of caregivers of children < 5 years of age with diarrhea in rural Asembo and urban Kibera. In Asembo, 61% of respondents provided oral rehydration therapy (ORT), 45% oral rehydration solution (ORS), and 64% continued feeding. In Kibera, 75% provided ORT, 43% ORS, and 46% continued feeding. Seeking care at a health facility, risk perception regarding death from diarrhea, and treating a child with oral medications were associated with ORT and ORS use. Availability of oral medication was negatively associated. A minority of caregivers reported that ORS is available in nearby shops. In Kenya, household case management of diarrhea remains inadequate for a substantial proportion of children. Health workers have a critical role in empowering caregivers regarding early treatment with ORT and continued feeding. Increasing community ORS availability is essential to improving diarrhea management.