RESUMEN
The major problem encounter the use of W.H.O "O.R.S" in developing countries including Libya is the quality of water. In Tripoli the water supply to main hospitals [in march 1993] contains high sodium, high osmolality and high total hardness. The electrolyte content of drinking water in march 1993 is different from that of natural water. Rice water prepared using drinking water available contains high sodium, potassium and osmolality. Reconstituting W.H.O "O.R.S" with the drinking water available produce high sodium concentration. We conclude that: it is important to estimate the electrolyte content of drinking water before "O.R.S" can be recommended for use in infants and children with dehydration. Further clinical studies are required to establish the optimum sodium and sugar content of "O.R.S" to be used in diarrhoeal diseases in Libyan infants and children