As the temperatures rise in the Western Cape, parents and caregivers are urged to be vigilant this paediatric surge season.
The period from November to May has become increasingly challenging, with hospitals seeing a surge in young children suffering from diarrhoea and pneumonia, illnesses that are both common and potentially severe.
The Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, the province’s dedicated paediatric facility, has reported a troubling increase in admissions for gastro-related symptoms, which underlines the critical need for parents to be aware of preventive measures and early signs of illness.
‘Gastroenteritis is one of the most common reasons for hospital admissions during this time of year,’ explains Professor Heloise Buys, Head of Ambulatory and Emergency Services at the hospital.
‘While many cases can be treated at home, young children are particularly vulnerable to dehydration—a condition that can quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation if not managed promptly,’
The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 1.7 billion cases of childhood diarrhoeal diseases occur globally each year. Many cases can be prevented through good hygiene, safe drinking water, and proper sanitation practices. This makes it essential for families to be proactive in safeguarding their children’s health.
Professor Buys stresses the importance of early intervention. She recommends that if a child is unable to keep fluids down or exhibits signs of dehydration, parents should seek medical help immediately.
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‘Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can be a lifesaving first step, and a simple recipe for making an effective solution at home involves mixing 1 litre of clean tap water, 8 teaspoons of sugar, and half a level teaspoon of salt. Stir the mixture well and provide it to the child in small amounts, especially after each watery stool or whenever they appear thirsty. If using non-municipal water, ensure it is boiled and cooled before use,’ Buys said.
Moreover, the risk of water contamination is more pronounced than many realise. Open containers can easily become tainted by:
- Dirty hands
- Unwashed utensils
- Animals, insects, or household pests
- Dust and debris
The presence of harmful diarrhoeal germs, such as E. coli, Shigella, Salmonella, and rotavirus, can significantly jeopardise the health of babies and young children. Understanding how to prevent illness is therefore crucial.
Important preventive measures for parents
To safeguard against these health issues during the surge season, parents and caregivers should consider the following essential steps:
- Wash hands with soap and water regularly, especially before food preparation and after using the toilet.
- Use only clean, safe water for drinking, cooking, and washing fruits and vegetables.
- Keep oral rehydration solution (ORS) on hand, and refer to the sugar-salt ORS recipe included in your child’s Road to Health Booklet.
- Ensure that your child is up to date with all vaccinations, including the rotavirus vaccine, which helps prevent severe diarrhoeal illness.
When to seek medical attention
Because young children lose fluids rapidly, diarrhoea can quickly become dangerous. Parents must be alert for any of the following signs that require urgent medical attention:
- Persistent vomiting and diarrhoea
- Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, and fewer wet nappies
- Unusual sleepiness, weakness, or difficulty waking
- Refusal to drink or feed
- Blood in the stool
- Convulsions accompanied by fever
- Swollen feet or ankles
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Picture: WCG
Source: WCG
