Assessment of the Prevalence of Gastroenteritis in Children in Tarhuna City during 2024
Keywords:
Gastroenteritis, Children, Tarhuna, Libya, Diarrhea, Rotavirus, Public HealthAbstract
This study aimed to assess the prevalence of gastroenteritis among children in the city of Tarhuna during 2024, analyze its association with demographic factors such as age and gender, and investigate parents' awareness of prevention methods. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design, with the sample comprising (267) children under the age of fifteen, selected from outpatient clinics and pediatric departments in health institutions within the city. Data were collected through questionnaires directed to parents, in addition to available clinical records.
The results showed that children under the age of six represent the most vulnerable group to infection, reflecting the fragility of their immune systems and their increased exposure to environmental factors that cause infection. However, the infection rate gradually decreased with age. A relative superiority in infection rates was also observed among females compared to males, with notable differences in older age groups. Regarding awareness, the survey revealed that the majority of parents recognize the importance of preventive practices such as handwashing before eating, access to safe drinking water, and vaccination against rotavirus, in addition to the pivotal role of health education in reducing the spread of the disease. However, a portion of respondents expressed neutrality or rejection of some of these measures, indicating knowledge and behavioral gaps that require intervention.
These results confirm that gastroenteritis remains a prominent health challenge among children in Tarhuna, calling for intensified efforts in health awareness, improved water and sanitation services, and enhanced immunization programs, particularly against rotavirus. The study also recommends conducting more comprehensive future research that includes larger samples and accurate microbiological analysis to identify pathogens and link them to environmental and behavioral variables.
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