Gastroenteritis In Primary School Children
(In Enugu Metropolis (6-12 Yrs))
Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, presents a significant health concern among primary school children due to its potential for rapid transmission and disruptive impact on both individuals and school communities. This gastrointestinal infection, characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever, can spread swiftly in crowded settings like schools, where close contact is inevitable. Prevention strategies, including promoting hand hygiene, maintaining clean environments, and ensuring proper food handling practices, play a crucial role in mitigating outbreaks. Additionally, vaccination against specific pathogens like rotavirus, a leading cause of gastroenteritis in young children, offers another layer of defense. Educating both students and staff about the importance of hygiene and prompt identification of symptoms aids in early intervention and containment. Collaborative efforts between schools, healthcare providers, and public health authorities are essential for effective management of gastroenteritis outbreaks in primary school settings, safeguarding the health and well-being of the student population.
A total of fifty faecal samples were collected form pupils in airport primary school Emene Enugu were used for the study. The duration of the investigation was between February August 2005. These samples were cultured and their causative organisms determined using macconkey agar, deocycholate citrate agar and an alkaline peptone water which was preparect according to manufacturers instruction .
The species of organisms isolated include; escherichia coil 8 (29 %) Klebsiella 5 (18%) Pseudomonas auroginosa 4 (14 %) shigella 3 (11%) proteus 2 (7%) staphylococcus SPP 2 (7%) respectively. These organism have a lot of health implication associated with gastroenteritis.
Title page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Abstract
List of table
1.0 CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Aims and objectives
1.2 Statement of problem
1.3 Hypothesis
1.4 Scope/ limitations of study
2.0 CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Environmental factor
2.2 Bacterial diseases of the lower alimentary system
2.3 Sources of infection
3.0 CHAPTER THREE
MATERIALS AND METHODS
3.1 material
3.2 Method
3.3 Method of culture
3.4 Plate reading
3.5 Biochemical reaction
CHAPTER FOUR
RESULT
CHAPTER FIVE –
Discussion and conclusion
CHAPTER SIX
Reference
Appendices
INTRODUCTION
Gastroenteritis is a disease condition due to the inflammation of the mucous of the stomach and intestine. Many microorganisms contaminating food and water can cause acute gastroenteritis. In most cases it runs its own course over several (days. However it can be a serious condition if the fluid loss is sever enough to cause dehydration. When food is the source of the pathogen the condition is often called food poisoning (Archeson 200)
Gastroenteritis can arise in two ways the microorganisms may actually produce a food borne infection, that is, they may first colonize the gastrointestinal tract and grow within it, then either invade host tissues or secrete exo- toxins (Johnson, 1999).
Alternatively the pathogens may secrete an exo- toxins that contaminates the food and is ingested by the host. This is some times reffered to as food intoxication because the toxins ingested and the presence of the living microorganisms is not required. Because theses toxins of the disrupt the functioning of intestinal mucosa they are called enterotoxins (Sanders and sanders 1997)
Most cases of gastroenteritis are due to viral infection about a half are caused by the rotavirus, first discovered and described at the royal children’s Hospital university of Melbourne in the early 1970 various other virus may cause the same symptoms as well as bacteria like campylobacter protozoa and helminthes. In most cases the precise infective agent is not identified. It is only when symptoms are persisting that stools are sent for microscopy and culture in the laboratory (Nachamkin 1992).
On a global scale gastroenteritis is a massive health problem. About 5 million people die each year, mainly young children in underdevloped countries most deaths are due to dehgdration, in adequate fluid replacement and cirulatory collapse. In Australia, Asia, African and South America an occasional fatality still occurs with gastroenteritis again mainly due to complication of sever dehydration A rotavirus vaccine has been developed in Australia and may eventually have extensive world wide application (Prescott et al 2005).
The main symptoms of gastroenteritis are vomiting diarliea and cramping abdominal pain. Sometimes of fever may also be present. In more severe cases, signs of dehydration may appear a young child may look floppy and pale and the urine out put may be reduced. these signs means that urgent medical assessments and treatment are required.
1.1 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
to determine the prevalenble of gastroenteritis in primary school children
also to implicate in gastroenteritis .
to relate the environment of the pupil to the types of diseases which they acquire from it.
1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEMS
There are factors in the environment which iduce pior sanitation and the filthy habits of the children ideal for transmission of gastroenteritis, therefore infection rate is expected high.
1.3 HYPOTHESIS
H0 – prevalence of gastroenteritis caused by bacteria and protozoa is common in primary school children
H1 – Although environment favours infection prevalence is not common in primary school children .
1.4 SCOPE LIMITATION OF STUDY
Limited to bacteria and protozoa involved in gastroenteritis as identifiable by the method used.
Technology of viral identification is not feasible within the facities in this laboratory while helminthes parasite were excluded for case of control.
Gastroenteritis is a common condition in primary school children. It is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines that often leads to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever. Gastroenteritis in children is typically caused by viral or bacterial infections, and it can spread easily in school settings due to close contact among students. Here are some key points to consider:
Causes: The most common causes of gastroenteritis in primary school children include viruses such as norovirus and rotavirus, as well as bacterial infections like Salmonella or Escherichia coli (E. coli). These infections can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms: Gastroenteritis symptoms in children may vary in severity but often include diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus), vomiting, stomach cramps, nausea, and fever. Dehydration is a significant concern, especially in younger children, so it’s crucial to monitor their fluid intake.
Spread in Schools: Gastroenteritis can easily spread in schools due to the close quarters and interactions among students. Contaminated surfaces, shared items, and poor hygiene practices can contribute to the spread. Schools should emphasize handwashing and disinfecting surfaces to reduce transmission.
Prevention:
Hand Hygiene: Teaching children proper handwashing techniques is essential. They should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
Vaccination: The rotavirus vaccine is recommended for infants and helps prevent severe cases of rotavirus-related gastroenteritis.
Food Safety: Ensure that school lunches and snacks are prepared and stored safely to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Treatment:
Fluids: Encourage children to drink clear fluids like water, oral rehydration solutions, and electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration.
Rest: Resting helps the body recover. Children with gastroenteritis should stay home from school until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours to prevent further spread.
Diet: Gradually reintroduce bland, easy-to-digest foods like rice, applesauce, and bananas (BRAT diet) once vomiting and diarrhea subside.
Medications: Over-the-counter medications for diarrhea or vomiting are generally not recommended for children without a doctor’s guidance.
Seek Medical Attention: If your child’s symptoms are severe, if they are very young, or if they show signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, lethargy), consult a healthcare provider promptly.
Remember that good hygiene practices and preventive measures play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of gastroenteritis in primary school children. Schools and parents should work together to promote a healthy and clean environment for students.