Abstract

Ibebuike J. E., Iquiro A. A., Ibebuike K. E., Nwokike I. G., Nnadozie E. and Emmanuel B. C.*

ABSTRACT

The major purpose of this study was to ascertain the knowledge, prevention and treatment of Diarrhea in children 0 -5yrs among child bearing mothers in Aboh-Mbaise health Centre. To accomplish the research purpose, four research questions were formulated. The research design adopted for this study was descriptive. The sample size constitutes eighty mothers drawn from total population of two hundred. The instrument for data collection was twenty item questionnaires. The data was coded and analyzed using percentages and tables. Findings revealed that majority of mothers (87%) know what diarrhea is; only about 13% were ignorant of the disease prevention. Some of the respondents 12.5% agreed exclusive breast feeding can prevent it, others said immunization 7.5%, others personal and environmental hygiene, others 15% believed the adequate waste disposal while 50% agreed that combination of all the opions will prevent the disease. The immediate management strategy of diarrhea in children 0 -5yrs was highlighted, and more than half of the respondents strongly agreed that ORS is very beneficial in diarrhea treatment. The last research question considered the benefits of proper management of diarrhea. From the above findings, it is important that both government and health care givers continue with the campaign on the prevention of diarrhea, importance of ORS in diarrhea disease treatment and timely health care utilization.