Fecal-oral diseases and their deadly impact on children in Haiti: causes, consequences and solutions.
Fecal-oral diseases continue to pose a serious threat to public health in Haiti, particularly in the internally displaced persons camps in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince. Dr. Ernst Noël, a physician and specialist in blood transfusion and virology, in a lengthy interview with June 7 has recently drawn attention to the resurgence of these diseases and their devastating impact on the lives of affected families. This article explores the causes, consequences and solutions to mitigate the impact of these diseases on child mortality.
Causes of Fecal-oral diseases.
Fecal-oral diseases develop when causative germs pass from animal or human excrement into the mouths of people. The main pathogens include bacteria (typhoid, cholera), viruses (poliovirus, hepatitis A), parasites (protozoa, worms) and, more rarely, fungi. These infectious agents enter the body, multiply and disrupt the normal functioning of the organism, explained Dr. Ernst Noël.
Lack of access to adequate sanitation and clean water is a key factor in the spread of these diseases. In internally displaced persons camps, such as those located at the Lycée Anténor Firmin and the École nationale Argentine Bellegarde, we have seen that precarious living conditions foster the transmission of pathogens.
The consequences of fecal-oral diseases
Fecal-oral diseases have serious health consequences, especially in children. “Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Some of these diseases, such as typhoid and cholera, can be fatal if not treated promptly. Diarrhea caused by rotavirus is particularly dangerous for children under three years of age, as it can lead to rapid dehydration and death,” the blood transfusion and virology specialist detailed.
In addition, intestinal worm infections can hamper children’s physical and cognitive development, compromising their future. Polio, meanwhile, can cause permanent disabilities, and other diseases are particularly dangerous for vulnerable people, such as the elderly and those living with HIV.
These fecal-oral diseases contribute significantly to child mortality in Haiti. Children, because of their physical constitution, are more likely to succumb to these diseases. Rapid dehydration caused by diarrhea, in particular, is a major cause of death among young children. Cholera and typhoid further compound this problem, increasing the number of preventable deaths.
Solutions to prevent and control fecal-oral diseases
To combat faecal-oral diseases and reduce their impact on infant mortality, several measures must be implemented according to Dr. Ernst Noël:
1- Public Hygiene:
Sanitation: Every house should have a latrine, and everyone should use it. Latrines should be located downstream from drinking water sources to avoid contamination.
Access to safe water: Providing universal access to safe water is essential to prevent disease.
Wastewater Treatment: Regular wastewater treatment and proper waste collection are necessary to prevent the spread of germs.
2- Personal Hygiene:
Handwashing: Everyone should wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet. This simple measure can significantly reduce the transmission of diseases.
Cleaning Food: Uncooked fruits and vegetables should be washed well before consumption.
Proper disposal of waste: The feces of sick people should be disposed of properly in latrines, and the sick should be taken to the doctor for proper treatment.
3- vaccination :
Available vaccines: Some faecal-oral diseases, such as typhoid, cholera, rotavirus and hepatitis A, can be prevented by vaccination. Vaccination programmes must be strengthened to protect vulnerable populations, concluded Ernst Noël.
Fecal-oral diseases are a major public health threat in Haiti, particularly in IDP camps. Their impact on child mortality is alarming, but simple and effective preventive measures can make a significant difference. Improving access to adequate sanitation, strengthening personal hygiene practices, and increasing vaccination coverage can reduce the incidence of these diseases and save lives. Combating fecal-oral diseases requires concerted and sustained action by the government, non-governmental organizations, and local communities.
Read also :
