Doctor warns against diarrhoea

A doctor from the Paediatric Ward at Mahosot Hospital is advising parents to pay special attention to the hygiene of under-fives to protect them from diarrhoea caused by rotavirus.

Head of the ward, Associate Prof. Dr Douangdao Soukaloun, said the incidence of rotavirus peaked from January to March each year when the weather was cool and dry.

“We want parents to take special care of their children during this time to make sure they don't contract the virus. This means making sure their feeding bottles and toys are kept thoroughly clean,” Dr Douangdao said.

At this time of the year the number of admissions to the ward increased significantly, with 50 percent suffering from rotavirus.

Children who contract rotavirus usually suffer from vomiting and diarrhoea and are at risk of dehydration. “If they don't get the proper treatment they may be at risk of malnutrition or death,” she said.

Symptoms begin with the development of a cold and high temperature on the first and second days. Some children then start vomiting and may also develop diarrhoea. If a child has more than three loose bowel movements a day this is considered to be diarrhoea and parents are advised to take them to a doctor.

Children with diarrhoea often become dehydrated so doctors advise they drink as much water as possible. Parents may give their children the rehydration solution ‘Oralit', coconut juice or soup to combat dehydration.

The paediatrician also advised mothers to continue to breastfeed their children if they fall ill. In addition, they should wash their hands before preparing milk or food for their children.

Parents should discuss their children's illness with a physician rather than going out and buying medicine from a roadside pharmacy.

A mother of two in Thatluang village, Xaysettha district, Ms Chantha, said she took her two-year daughter to 103 Hospital last week. But she had to transfer her to Setthathirath Hospital because there were no beds available for her to stay overnight.

She said her daughter had vomited during the night at least three times and became weak and tired.

“I did not hesitate to take her to hospital. Doctors gave her rehydration solution intravenously. She was soon better and came home the following day.”

At present, Lao doctors can only treat the symptoms of rotavirus. A vaccine is available but is not yet available in Laos because it is very expensive.

In spite of its cost, it would be helpful if the government would consider buying the vaccine for the benefit of Lao children, Dr Douangdao said.

By Xayxana Leukai
(Latest Update February 5 , 2010)