Winter diarrhoea in children

Most of the children experience few episodes of diarrhoea in their early age. In winter, viral diarrhoea is quite common. At present if we pay a visit to any children ward, we will find many cases of diarrhoea with different grades of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

We all know that causes of diarrhoea may be due to virus, bacteria, parasite etc. In Bangladesh and other countries during winter, most of the causes of diarrhoea is due to virus and the commonest responsible one is Rota virus. Sudden onset of vomiting, frequent loose watery stool like corn soup with increased thirst are the predominant feature. Sometimes fever may be associated.

Contaminated food and water is the source of the Rota virus. Consequences of such diarrhoea may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance and occasionally may follow acute kidney injury or renal failure. Often Rota virus diarrhoea is called stomach flu.

Treatment should be started as early as possible. Start ORS as soon as possible to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. If the child is less then one year old, 10- 20 tea spoonful of ORS should be given for each stool or vomiting. If age is two years or more, 20 to 40 tea spoonful of ORS should be given for each stool or vomiting.

Antibiotics does not help in viral diarrhoea. Zinc syrup can reduce the duration, frequency and further attack. If dehydration is severe, hospitalisation is recommended for administration of intravenous cholera saline. Following frequent diarrhoea, perianal (area around the anus) soreness is common. Zinc oxide cream application may help to reduce the irritation.

To prevent this viral diarrhoea, most important measure is proper hand washing with water and liquid soap. Anti Rota virual vaccination also helps, which should be given in 2-6 months of age. Exclusive Breast feeding in first six month prevents diarrhoea episodes. Maintaining proper personal hygiene is very important.

Take care of your kids in winter.

The author is a Professor of Paediatrics at Community Based Medical College, Mymensingh. E-mail: mmukkhan@gmail.com