SOUTHERN CAPE NEWS - Summer is in full swing and with it comes the heightened risk of contracting germs that cause diarrhoea. 

More than 130 children have been admitted to hospitals in the Eden district for treatment of diarrhoea since the start of the paediatric surge season (PSS) in November.

Children, especially those under five years old, are most at risk of contracting diarrhoea. Dehydration caused by diarrhoea is one of the highest causes of death in early childhood. 

Making sure that the family washes their hands between activities is the most effective way to prevent it.

Hand washing as a regular hygiene routine can play a significant role in the prevention of disease, since 80% of germs are spread from our hands. 

Even if your home does not have running water or if you have water restrictions, keep a plastic cooldrink bottle filled with water handy so that you can rinse your hands with clean water after washing them.

Wash toys, feeding bottles and dummies in hot, soapy water and rinse well. 

Teething toys must be kept separately and rinsed regularly. 

Don't let rubbish lie around or allow children to play in puddles; dirty water spreads disease.

Clean up animal waste immediately. 

If your child has a fever, is vomiting, has a loose stool or blood in their stools, and refuses to eat or drink, they're probably suffering from diarrhoea.

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