Evaluation of The Determinants of Uptake of Oral Rehydration Salts And Zinc in The Management of Childhood Diarrhea in Navakholo Sub County; Kakamega County

Abstract

Diarrheal diseases remain a major public health issue in Kenya, contributing significantly to illness and death among children under five years old. The use of oral rehydration salts (ORS) and zinc is globally recognized as the standard treatment for managing acute diarrhea in young children; however, the adoption of these treatments is still inadequate. This study focused on assessing the factors influencing the use of ORS and zinc for treating childhood diarrhea in Navakholo Sub County, Kenya. It employed a cross-sectional design, targeting caregivers of children under five years old in the area. Data was collected through simple random sampling, with a total of 247 participants selected from a population of 22,363 children in that age group. Data was collected using interviewer administered structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Chi-square (X2) and logistic regression analysis were performed to identify the factors associated with the uptake of ORS and Zinc. A two-week diarrhea prevalence was 27.9% with 74% of the caregivers providing ORS, 55.1% providing zinc. Utilization of ORS and zinc was low as a home management intervention for acute diarhoeal illness with caregivers demonstrating inadequate knowledge, attitude and practice. Caregivers demonstrated moderate knowledge, positive attitudes, and suboptimal practices regarding the use of ORS and zinc. The study established that uptake of ORS and zinc was hindered by stock-outs, product expiry, and affordability issues, particularly for zinc. However, high availability of ORS through government facilities and Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) promoted its use. Mapping revealed geographic disparities in diarrhoea distribution across the wards with varied uptake of ORS and zinc. The findings suggest the need for multifaceted interventions to improve caregiver knowledge, strengthen the supply chain, and enhance the availability and accessibility of ORS and zinc, particularly in underserved areas. Targeted behavior change communication and strengthening of the community health system are recommended to increase uptake of this life-saving treatment for childhood diarrhea in Navakholo Sub County.