Context:
In India, diarrhoea and pneumonia are the leading causes of under-five child mortality. Uttar Pradesh faces significant challenges, with high prevalence rates of these diseases. However, several challenges hinder the effective implementation of health and hygiene practices. Low awareness and knowledge about immunization and nutrition, socioeconomic factors, hygiene behaviours, reluctance to seek healthcare, and cultural norms are major obstacles. Simple measures like handwashing with soap, immunization, and good hygiene and health behaviours can effectively prevent children from falling prey to these life-threatening infections.
Purpose:
The ‘Common Illnesses Card’ serves as a comprehensive educational tool to sensitize parents about preventing common illnesses like diarrhoea and pneumonia in children. It emphasizes easily accessible and cost-effective preventive measures, including getting vaccinated with Rotavirus and PCV vaccines. The card also highlights impactful hygiene practices like regular handwashing with soap, maintaining a clean, smoke-free environment, and ensuring access to clean water. By providing essential information and practical tips, the card empowers parents to proactively safeguard their children’s health, reducing the burden of preventable illnesses, and promoting a healthier future for their little ones.
Target Groups:
Parents of 0-2-year-old children
Key Messages:
Simple and cost-effective behaviours such as immunization and handwashing with soap can prevent life-threatening infections such as diarrhoea and pneumonia in children.
Duration:
3 minutes
Required Resources:
Common Illnesses Card
How to Use:
To use the ‘Common Illnesses Card,’ facilitators engage parents by presenting the preventive measures, vaccine benefits, and hygiene practices to create awareness and empower them to protect their children from common illnesses like diarrhoea and pneumonia. They recommend seeking information from healthcare workers and immediate medical attention for any child’s illness.
