New Delhi: Did you know that every fifth child dying of diarrhea in the world is an Indian? A recent report by the MInistry of Rural Development and UNICEF has disturbing figures showing how the disease is creating havoc in India.
“Children below five years in rural India are under great threat. Lack of good water, health services, opportunities are leading to this,” says UNICEF Health Chief, Marzio Babille.
Various disparities among the affected states like UP, Bihar, Rajasthan and Orissa also pose a challenge to health authorities
“Seven states report more than 67 per cent of cases. The disparities prevent a uniform solution,” says Babille.
Diarrhea is 100 per cent preventable. Health agencies are unanimous that serious steps need to be taken and fast.
“Health Ministry is now pushing hard. WHO and UNICEF have a joint plan to provide ORS and Zinc tablets together,” says Babille.
But that alone may not be enough.
“We need awareness about sanitation, water and medical services at Anganwadi and PHC level,” says Mehra.
India hopes to achieve the Millennium Development Goal in the field of sanitation before 2015. But with 1000 children dying every day it may take some time.
Comments
0 comment