The rise of diarrheal illnesses in the children of Pakistan amidst COVID-19: A narrative review

Abstract

Background: In Pakistan, 74 children out of 1000 lose their lives annually due to diarrheal illness. This commentary addresses the contributing factors aggravating this growing dilemma and the effect of a simultaneous rise in COVID-19 cases in a healthcare system ready to collapse, along with providing recommendations to alleviate the problems causing this spike in diarrheal cases. Methods: This narrative review has emphasized the causes of the spike in pediatric diarrheal illnesses in Pakistan as well as recommendations offered to lessen the burden by incorporating recent literature (n = 68). Tactics to tackle COVID-19 alongside diarrheal illnesses were also included. Pakistan was chosen to be assessed due to its high burden of child and infant mortality due to preventable causes. Results: The provision of safe drinking water, the proper use of Integrated Management of Newborn and Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI), adequate awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding, the use of correct rehydration techniques such as Oral Rehydration Therapy, and the crucial implementation of the EPI vaccination schedule can curb this increase in diarrheal cases. Conclusion: The increased prevalence of diarrheal diseases amongst the pediatric population of Pakistan can be attributed largely due to unsanitary drinking water. Emphasis must be put in the provision of safe drinking water. During the first years of life, children can be kept safe from deadly pathogens just by adequate breastfeeding. IMNCI and EPI must also be properly implemented.