GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - As the period between November and May marks the paediatric surge season, healthcare professionals are urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant in preventing and managing diarrheal and respiratory related disease in young children.
Althea Adams, clinical programme coordinator in the Garden Route, says both diarrhoea and pneumonia remain one of the leading health risks for infants and young children, yet it is both treatable and preventable with prompt action.
"November 2024 to 3 March 2025 stats shows that 1 585 children in the Garden Route district were hospitalised at public hospitals with pneumonia," says Adams.
"The first 1 000 days of a child’s life present a crucial window of opportunity to ensure optimal growth and development.
"One of the most effective ways to safeguard children’s health during this season is ensuring they are vaccinated on time according to the recommended schedule, which significantly reduces the risk of severe symptoms associated with common paediatric illnesses."
Ferreira gives some pointers to help parents identify when their child is becoming sick.
Know the Danger Signs
The Western Cape Health Department's Road to Health booklet provides vital information on warning signs that requires urgent medical care. If a child exhibits any of the following, immediate medical attention should be sought:
- Persistent coughing and rapid breathing
- Inability to feed and presence of fever
- Vomiting everything consumed
- Diarrhoea (loose, watery stools ) accompanied by sunken eyes and a swollen fontanelle (soft spot on an infant’s head,18 months and younger)
- Shaking or convulsions
- Signs of malnutrition such as swollen feet and hands
- Inability to breastfeed
- Lack of movement or response
From November 2024 to 3 March 2025, 1266 children in the Garden Route district under the age of 5 presented with diarrhoea. Of those, 559 children were hospitalised. If a child develops loose stools, immediate administration of an oral rehydration solution or Sugar Salt Solution is advised. This can be prepared by adding half a level teaspoon of salt and eight level teaspoons of sugar to one litre of cooled, boiled water. If breastfeeding, give more frequent and longer breastfeeds at a time.
Recognising Dehydration Symptoms
Parents and caregivers should be aware of the symptoms of dehydration, which include:
- Reduced urination
- Dry mouth
- Few tears when crying
- Sunken eyes
- Weakness
Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and presents with symptoms such as:
- Drowsiness
- Pale or mottled skin
- Cold hands or feet
- Dry nappies
- Rapid and shallow breathing
Adams says the local healthcare facilities provide diagnosis and treatment for a range of childhood illnesses.
"Especially during surge season, our healthcare staff offer valuable guidance on nutrition and encourage families and caregivers to seek medical care as promptly of showing any of the danger signs."
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in protecting children from the dangers of diarrheal disease and dehydration. Early intervention can save lives and ensuring that children receive the necessary medical attention in time is crucial.
