While diarrhea and pneumonia are most common diseases in young children between November and May, every year, doctors say Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is the reason for most hospital admissions.
But when children receive help early, they usually recover well.
Professor Heloise Buys, Head of Ambulatory and Emergency Services at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, said “while many children can be treated at home, young children are especially vulnerable to dehydration, which can become life-threatening, if not managed early.”
Sr Roenell Balie, Assistant Manager of Facility Based Services for the Cape Winelands District, said healthcare workers are concerned about the well-being of children.
She said staff at clinics and other healthcare facilities in the Breede Valley, Drakenstein, Langeberg, Stellenbosch and Witzenberg are doing their best to support parents who seek healthcare for their children.
“It is, however, important that adults take quick action at home already, and give young children sips of the oral rehydration solution when they first notice signs of dehydration.”
Early recognition of symptoms and timely treatment can prevent severe dehydration and other complications.