The City of Cape Town urged parents to act early and prevent diarrhoea this summer season. As temperatures rise, so does the risk of diarrhoea, especially for young children.
Reportedly, the City Health reminded parents and caregivers that simple daily habits can prevent illness and even save lives, at larger level. The hot weather over summer promotes the spread of germs, and this increases the number of children who get sick with diarrhoea and dehydration, especially during the months of November and May – known as the ‘surge season’.
Dehydration is a common side effect of diarrhoeal disease and can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children. Due to which healthcare workers are on high alert with staff ready to provide quick, compassionate care and emergency treatment when needed.
But prevention starts at home. Considering this Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham said that they asked parents to stay alert, know the signs of dehydration and take simple steps to protect their children.
For Higham, prevention remains the simplest way to protect their children, and it starts with clean water, regular handwashing, and proper food handling. While City Health is ready to respond, prevention and early home care remain the most powerful tools.
Notably, parents and caregivers can reduce the risk through the following daily habits:
- Use safe, clean water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning bottles
- Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of life
- Keep food covered and discard leftovers that have been standing for long periods
- Dispose of nappies safely and keep play areas clean
In addition to the above-mentioned precautions, it’s very important to wash hands with soap and clean water before preparing food, feeding a child, and after using the toilet or changing nappies. If a child has diarrhoea, it is essential to increase their fluid intake, to prevent dehydration.
City Health of Cape Town also suggested to have an oral re-hydration solution or the Sugar-Salt Solution (SSS) can be prepared at home by mixing one litre of clean, safe water with eight level teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of salt. Stir until completely dissolved and give the child small sips often even if they vomit, keep offering slowly.
Also, for mothers that are breastfeeding, continue to do so as it’s the best fluid for your baby. Seek help immediately if you notice any of the following danger signs:
- Child is very thirsty or unable to drink
- Sunken eyes or dry mouth
- Few or no tears when crying
- Drowsiness, weakness, or irritability
- Blood in the stool
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than two days
- Less or no urine (dry nappies)
Caregivers are encouraged to ensure that all children are up to date with their routine immunisations. In addition, Rotarix drops is particularly important as we enter the surge season, to help protect children under six months against severe diarrhoeal disease caused by rotavirus.
All City Health clinics of Cape Town have activated their summer surge plans and are stocked with supplies to treat dehydration.