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As monsoon rains sweep across India, central ministries have issued a joint advisory urging states and Union Territories to take urgent steps to improve public health standards and curb the spread of diarrhoeal diseases—a leading cause of death among children under five in the country. The advisory, coordinated by the ministries of health, women and child development, agriculture, education, water and sanitation, and urban development, highlights the critical need for enhanced access to clean water, robust nutrition programs, and widespread promotion of hygiene. It also calls for ensuring the availability of oral rehydration salts (ORS) and zinc at all health facilities.
Diarrhoea: A Persistent Threat
Acute Diarrheal Disease (ADD) is primarily caused by infections from viruses, bacteria, or parasites and spreads through contaminated food, water, and poor hygiene. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that diarrhoeal disease is the third-leading cause of death in children under five globally, responsible for approximately 444,000 deaths annually and 1.7 billion cases each year.
In India, diarrhoea remains a major public health challenge. While estimates indicate that around 300,000 children died from diarrhoea in 2014-15, this figure has declined to about 60,000 deaths in 2023-24, reflecting the impact of ongoing sanitation and clean water initiatives. However, certain states continue to report high case numbers. Karnataka, for example, registered 64,229 cases and two deaths from ADD up to May 8 this year, while Assam’s Dibrugarh district reported 26 cases and one death in 2023.
Government Response and Prevention Efforts
To address the seasonal spike in diarrhoeal cases, the government is running a campaign until July 31, focusing on preparatory activities such as establishing State Task Forces, building the capacity of health workers, and ensuring the distribution of ORS-Zinc packs. States and UTs have been urged to conduct interdepartmental meetings, develop communication strategies—including social and behavior change communication (SBCC)—and guarantee the co-packaging and distribution of ORS and Zinc to children under five.
A senior government official emphasized the effectiveness of the rotavirus vaccine in preventing childhood diarrhoea-related deaths and credited initiatives like the “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” and clean water supply programs for significantly reducing infection rates among children. The official also noted that diarrhoea increases the risk of malnutrition in children by 5-7 times, making prompt treatment and nutritional support crucial.
Expert Advice for the Monsoon Season
Healthcare professionals warn that the risk of waterborne illnesses, including diarrhoea and cholera, rises sharply during the monsoon due to contamination of water sources and food. Key preventive measures include:
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Maintaining strict hand hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating or handling food.
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Consuming only clean, boiled, or filtered water: Avoid untreated or potentially contaminated water sources.
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Eating freshly prepared, home-cooked food: Avoid street food and raw or uncovered foods, which are more likely to be contaminated during the rainy season.
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Washing fruits and vegetables properly: Ensure all produce is cleaned with safe water before consumption.
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Promptly seeking medical attention: Early signs of diarrhoea, especially in children and the elderly, should be addressed to prevent dehydration and complications.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
