ACCESS TO SAFE DRINKING WATER REMAINS NEED OF HOUR IN PREVENTING BACTERIAL AND PARASITIC DIARRHEA AMONGST UNDER 5 CHILDREN

ABSTRACT

In India, diarrhea prevalence among under 5 years children remains high and is associated with a wide range of bacteria, parasites, and viruses, transmitted through contaminated food and water. The present study aimed at the detection of enteric pathogens in children with diarrhea and its relationship to the source of drinking water. Fecal samples were collected from 157 children from July 2021 to July 2022. Among 157 children, parasitic and bacterial pathogens were detected in 4.5% (7/157). Parasites were detected in 2% (Giardia 67%, H nana in 33%) and bacteria in 2.5% (Ecoli O157 in 75% and salmonella in 25%) cases. Specific sources of drinking water more often associated with diarrhea were hand pumps (43%), house tap water (28.6%), bore well (14.2%), and well (14.2%) cases. Thus, demonstrating the persistence of significant pathogens and re-emphasizing that diarrheal illnesses are preventable through safe drinking water practices.