Abstract
Background: Diarrhea remains a leading killer of young children, despite the availability of simple treatment solution. It accounts for 9% of all deaths among children under 5 years of age worldwide. Information on diarrheal diseases, its determinants, preventive and control strategies need periodic review for better planning and implementation of health services. It is essential for healthcare persons and mothers to have proper knowledge and attitude regarding advantages of colostrum, appropriate feeding practices during diarrheal illness, common dangerous cultural practices, and usage of ORS and implementation of hygienic practices.
Objective: This study was done to find out the awareness regarding different aspects of prevention, treatment of diarrheal diseases among mothers and health personnel.
Method: This study was done over a period of 6 months from January to June 2017. 316 persons including staff nurses, nursing assistants, social workers working in various departments of Government Vellore Medical College, Vellore and mothers of children admitted in Department of Paediatrics were randomly selected. A structured questionnaire was put forth to the study population with systematic interview approach without any prior guidance / advance intimation.
Results: Most of the mothers had different ideas in diarrhea treatment and prevention. Health personnel had better understanding of diarrheal disease.
Conclusion: Periodic assessment of both health personnel and community is needed to bridge the gap in awareness of diarrheal diseases. Health education should be structured to bridge this gap and there is a felt need to revamp the health personnel and mothers for improved health services.
Keywords: diarrhea, ORS.
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Corresponding Author
Dr Luke Ravi Chelliah
Associate Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Govt. Vellore Medical College, Vellore
Ph: 9840177788, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i8.65
