Preventive Measures for Diarrhea in Communities Lacking Clean Water Supply: A Scientific Review

Ngugi Mwaura J.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Diarrhea remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in communities with limited access to clean water, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This review highlights preventive measures aimed at reducing the incidence of diarrhea in populations lacking safe water supplies. The review explores the role of water quality improvements, sanitation infrastructure, hygiene promotion, and community engagement in minimizing diarrheal disease transmission. Key interventions include point-of-use water treatment methods such as solar disinfection (SODIS) and water purification tablets, improved sanitation practices to contain waste and prevent water contamination, and hygiene promotion with a focus on handwashing. Furthermore, the integration of food safety protocols and cholera vaccination programs complements water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives. The review also emphasizes the importance of community education and the involvement of local leaders and health workers in fostering sustainable health practices. Despite proven solutions, challenges to implementation—such as economic constraints, cultural barriers, political factors, and geographic limitations—persist. The review advocates for innovative financing models, culturally sensitive interventions, and policy support to address these obstacles and improve long-term health outcomes in resource-limited settings.

Keywords: Diarrhea, clean water supply, preventive measures, sanitation, hygiene practices, community engagement.

CITE AS: Ngugi Mwaura J. (2024). Preventive Measures for Diarrhea in Communities Lacking Clean Water Supply: A Scientific Review. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES 4(3):39-43. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJBAS/2024/433943