Awareness and use of ORS in treatment of childhood diarrhea among mothers in Bauchi state, Northern Nigeria: An implementation research findings

Background: The management of childhood diarrhea using oral rehydration salts (ORS) is one of the proven life-saving interventions which reduce death and disability from diarrheal disease. Key messages on appropriate health and care-seeking behaviors, including use of ORS were reinforced through health facility workers, household education by community based health volunteers (CBHVs), and mass media in Bauchi State, Nigeria.

Methods: As part of an intervention initiated to improve access to quality care through private medical vendors (PMVs), a baseline survey on household experiences in managing malaria, diarrhea, and cough with difficult breathing was done in four local government areas (LGAs). A total of 3,077 children under five years of age were identified in selected households. 1,560 mothers with children under five presenting one or more of the three childhood illnesses in the last two weeks before the survey were interviewed. Mothers with more than one child under five were interviewed with respect to a particular child.

Results: Of the 1,560 mothers interviewed, 22% of the children had diarrhea, with 81% of these children treated. 25% of children treated were treated using ORS and 2% with salt-sugar solution. Among mothers of children that did not use ORS, 60% are aware of ORS. The results show that knowledge of ORS in the treatment of childhood diarrhea does not translate into use.

Implication/Conclusion: The baseline results was used in the development of training guide for PMVs, training of PMVs, re-orientation of CBHVs knowledge and areas to focus on with respect to childhood illnesses. Further study is required on perceptions of mothers regarding the use of oral rehydration solution (ORS), and the effectiveness of communication interventions.