CDD - watsan study : a report of the study in Delhi district

Although poor sanitation and unsafe drinking water are main causes of diarrhoeal disease, research has shown that this relationship is not recognized by mothers of young children and that the concept of diarrhoea prevention is one of low interest. A CDD-WATSAN strategy being introduced in 15 districts of India in as many states aims at reducing the incidence of diarrhoeal cases among children below 5 years by implementing a three pronged approach which includes providing universal access to safe drinking water and improved sanitation coverage, promoting correct diarrhoea management practices, and promoting correct diarrhoea prevention practices through health and hygiene education. In order to assess the extent of reduction achieved in diarrhoeal morbidity by this strategy, a study to measure the morbidity rate and practices that exist today was carried out. This report presents the results of the study carried out in Delhi district, 39 per cent in rural villages and the rest in urban slums. The respondents covered in the study were female caregivers of children below 5 years of age suffering from diarrhoea in the last 24 hours prior to the interview. The report begins with a socio-economic profile of sample areas including demographic details, infrastructure, community organizations and access to communication links. The results of a baseline survey to establish benchmarks on the incidence of diarrhoeal disease among children below 5 years of age is followed by a detailed profile of respondents, particularly their education and literacy levels; the child with diarrhoea; and the mother?s perception of the seriousness of the disease. The WATSAN section of the questionnaire aims at studying the accessibility of water, sanitation and health facilities and assessing the household behaviour and practices related to collection, storage and usage of drinking water and issues related to personal hygiene and sanitation. The report also examines the actual practices followed for diarrhoea management and mothers? awareness of ORS (oral rehydration salts). Finally, the results of a health system questionnaire administered to health functionaries looks at the frequency and effectiveness of the present reporting system on diarrhoeal diseases and deaths. Questionnaires used for the study are included in appendices. It is hoped that the planned interventions will result in changes in knowledge, attitudes and practices and , therefore, in diarrhoeal morbidity.