Diarrhoeal disease is a preventable illness that causes loose, watery stools. It can be caused by a variety of germs, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. These germs are spread through contaminated food or water, or from person to person as a result of poor hygiene.
Here are some key measures to prevent diarrhoea:
- Access to safe drinking water: This is the most important step in preventing diarrhoeal disease. Drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or treated with chlorine.
- Use of improved sanitation: This means having access to toilets that properly dispose of waste.
- Hand washing with soap: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the toilet, and after changing a diaper.
- Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life: Breast milk is the best food for babies and can help protect them from diarrhea.
- Good personal and food hygiene: This includes washing fruits and vegetables before eating them, cooking food thoroughly, and avoiding contact with people who are sick.
- Health education about how infections spread: Teaching people about how diarrhea is spread can help them take steps to prevent it.
- Rotavirus vaccination: Rotavirus is a virus that can cause severe diarrhea in young children. The rotavirus vaccine can help protect children from this illness.
By following these simple steps, you can help prevent diarrhea and keep yourself and your family healthy.
