DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2016.v04i10.013

Pages: 3604-3607

Water borne diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganism that most commonly are transmitted in contaminated fresh water. Various forms of waterborne diarrheal diseases (Hepatitis A and Diarrhea) probably are the most prominent examples, and affect mainly children in developing countries. Diarrheal diseases and hepatitis are a major cause of hospitalization & child’s death globally. This study was designed to see the effect of water sanitation and socio-economic status on common feco-oral transmitted diseases. A total of 116 children, fulfilling inclusion criteria were recruited in the study after taking written informed consent from parents or guardians of children. Detailed data including general information, age, sex, environment, education level, socio-economic status, source of water supply, type of toilet, sewage disposal and any method of water treatment at home were taken. History of diarrheal illness in last month of enrolment was also taken to find out incidence of diarrhea. Results showed significant higher incidence of diarrhea and hepatitis A among children with lower socio-economic classes and poor sanitation practices. Study concluded that improving access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation, as well as promoting good hygiene, are key components in preventing diarrhea and hepatitis A.