ORS and Zinc, the Lifesaving Treatment for Diarrhoea in Children
Diarrhoea is a leading cause of illness in young children. Learn how to use ORS and zinc at home, keep feeding, and spot the danger signs of dehydration.
- Written by
- Primegala Clinical Team
- Published
- Reading time
- 1 min read
Short answer: For a child with diarrhoea, give ORS (oral rehydration solution) after every loose stool, give zinc daily for 10–14 days as advised by a health worker, and keep feeding and breastfeeding. Come in immediately if you see danger signs.
How to use ORS
- Mix one sachet with the exact amount of clean water stated on the packet.
- Give small, frequent sips from a cup or spoon after each loose stool.
- If your child vomits, wait 10 minutes, then continue more slowly.
- Make a fresh mix every 24 hours.
Why zinc?
Zinc shortens diarrhoea and helps prevent it from coming back in the following months. A health worker will advise on the dose for your child's age.
Keep feeding
Continue breastfeeding and offer food. Children need nutrients to recover.
Come in immediately if your child
- Can't drink or breastfeed, or vomits everything
- Has sunken eyes, a very dry mouth or no tears
- Is unusually sleepy or difficult to wake
- Has blood in the stool
- Has diarrhoea for more than 14 days
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