Home Management Practices of Acute Respiratory Infections and Acute Diarrhea of Children in Sana’a, Yemen

Abstract

Introduction: Acute Respiratory Infections, (ARI), and diarrhea represent major leading cause to under five morbidity and mortality all over the world. Majority of these cases occur in the poorest communities. This study aimed to assess different home management practices of pneumonia and diarrhea in Sana’a. Methods: This is a hospital-based cross-sectional study with direct interview of Mothers recruited from major hospitals in Sana’a between January and May 2020. Results Two hundred and six mothers were enrolled in this study. Hundred and sixty-six (80.6%) of mothers in this study used over-the-counter anti-cough preparations. The study reported 58.7% of mothers did not give their children Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), during diarrhea. We found 45.1% and 35% gave antibiotics without prescription during ARI and acute diarrhea respectively. Majority of mothers continued breastfeeding. No association was detected between practices and demographic features or educational level of mothers. Conclusion: Inappropriate self-medication practices regarding the management of acute diarrhea and ARI and under use of ORS for acute diarrhea were common home practices. There is a great need to increase awareness of mothers about home management through health education programs.