Abstract:

Diarrhoeal diseases are a public health concern and constitute about 5% of all main causes of out-patient department visits in the city of Bulawayo. We conducted a dataset analysis of diarrhoeal diseases to determine how the trends have varied over the years. A descriptive cross-sectional study based on an electronic database for diarrhoeal diseases (2007-2012) was conducted. Data was collected using compilation forms and checklists, then analysed using Microsoft Excel. Three key informants were interviewed. The formula, (Mean + 1.5SD), was used to calculate thresholds for bloody diarrhoea. There were more watery than bloody diarrhoeal cases throughout the review period, with 2008 having the highest number of such cases under 5. In Northern Suburbs, there was a general decrease in both types of diarrhoea cases in both age groups (<5 and >5)  whilst in Emakhandeni; there was an increase in bloody diarrhoea incidence after 2009. The incidence rate for bloody diarrhoea was higher for females throughout. There was an increase in the number of stool specimens collected for examination between 2008 and 2012. Overall, there was a decrease in the incidence of diarrhoea in Bulawayo city, partly due to regular anti-diarrhoeal campaigns. Following the study, the following measures were implemented: Health education to improve hygienic practices; advocacy for improved water and sanitation in Cowdray Park; rotavirus vaccination for under-fives; maintenance of all records on diarrhoea and up to date thresholds in all clinics for use in monitoring diarrhoea.

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