Sanitation risk factors associated with diarrhea in children under five years (Kenya)

This study examined the sanitation risk factors associated with childhood diarrhea in Igembe South Sub County in Meru County. The objectives of the study were; to establish the sanitation etiological causes of diarrhea, identify the distribution of diarrhea cases, identify the household sanitation risk factors contributing to diarrhea, assess household water and hygiene practices, and analyze the microbial contamination of water sources in Igembe South Sub County, Meru County. The sample size was 196 children. Data for the children under five years treated for diarrheal diseases was collected from both inpatient and outpatient department. It was established that samples from four water sources tested positive for E. coli contamination. Basic sanitation is paramount in ensuring hygienic excreta disposal and a clean and healthful environment within the households. Availability of safe drinking water, which is a key sanitation commodity, can significantly reduce diarrhea episodes in children under five years old. The County Government of Meru should continuously assess the safety of water sources to ensure that all water sources are free from disease causing pathogens.