A Manual on Control of Gastroenteritis
with special reference to Andhra Pradesh, India.
Author: Prasanta Mahapatra
Publication Year: 2001
About the book:
Incidence of gastroenteritis is an indicator of social and economic development. Access to adequate quantity of safe drinking water, closed sewerage system, and good nutritional status by most of the population will automatically result in a sustained reduction in the level of GE incidence. In addition, literacy and resultant awareness among people about health status enhancing personal hygiene will contribute to reduction of GE incidence. With a brief overview of the causes of gastroenteritis (GE) the manual highlights basic insights for its control.
This manual is addressed to every who has a role in control of gastroenteritis. The third chapter addresses individuals, families and households, who play a key role in proper use of water for drinking, general and personal hygiene. The next chapter is meant to assist community health workers with information and insights for management of gastroenteritis. Tips of recognition of gastroenteritis are provided. Steps for preparation of oral rehydration solution and its usefulness in management of GE are described. Chapter- 5 is written from a public health managers point of view regarding prevention, control and management of GE. The Primary Health Centres in rural areas, and Health Officers in municipalities have a major role to play. The chapter gives instructions about surveillance of drinking water and food quality, early detection of GE outbreaks and medical management of GE cases.