Leading cause of death in children under 5 globally; the highest mortality from diarrheal diseases is in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia

Aetiology

• Rotavirus, E. coli
• Usually caused by faeces-infected water or food
• Major cause of malnutrition, and malnourished children are more likely to fall ill from diarrhoea

Management

Prevention

• Safe drinking water, good hygiene and sanitation
• Breastfeeding and good nutrition
• Vaccination

Management

• Oral rehydration solution (ORS)
  • Sodium glucose co-transport system - glucose and sodium creates osmotic pull for water
  • Instantly absorbed in jejunum avoiding most of intestine
  • For mild and moderate dehydration avoids IV fluids, and only costs pennies
• Zinc supplements