Abstract

In Uganda, diarrheal disease causes 17% of all baby and under-five child mortality, which contributes to high IMRs of
53 and 80 fatalities per 1000 live births, respectively. According to the Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, diarrhea affects
23% of children under the age of five, placing them at risk for malnutrition and weakened immune systems that make
them more susceptible to other illnesses. Data from kids aged five and under were gathered using a straightforward,
standardized questionnaire for the cross-sectional investigation. A calculator and an Excel spreadsheet were used to
assess the data. Tables and pie charts were used to display the results. Results revealed that 49.6% of caregivers and
mothers were unaware of what diarrheal disease was, while 53.9% were unaware of the symptoms of dehydration and
only 54.4% were aware of how to prevent diarrhea. Lack of funds was cited by 44% of respondents as a deterrent to
taking sick children to the hospital as soon as possible. Additionally, the population investigated in this community
lacks basic caregiver knowledge and engages in harmful behaviors when it comes to managing diarrheal disease and
preventing it. Enhanced access to ORS, which is utilized in the management of diarrhoea, and enhanced health
education of caregivers, particularly mothers, are also necessary.