Original Article Risk Factors for Enteric Fever in Children Aged 1 to 14 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study at Gandaki Province of Nepal

Abstract

Introduction: Enteric fever is one of the major public health problems in Nepal. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors associated with enteric fever in children Methods: This is prospective cross-sectional study conducted from April 15 to November 2023, with sample size of 139 children aged 1-14 years, diagnosed as enteric fever. Data were collected through pretested and validated proforma containing structured questionnaires. Data were analysed through SPSS version 23. Results: About seventy (69.8%) percent of the children had a history of consuming untreated water, and 52.5% lacked access to proper sanitation facilities. Additionally, 59% of the children were from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and 38.8% had close contact with infected individuals. The children from rural areas were more likely to be exposed to untreated water sources (73.9%) and had a higher prevalence of low socioeconomic status (62.5%) compared to their urban counterparts. Logistic regression analysis revealed that children exposed to untreated water were 2.1 times more likely to develop enteric fever than those not exposed, with this result being statistically significant (OR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.30-3.40, p=0.002). Conclusion: Untreated water, inadequate sanitation, and low socioeconomic status as key risk factors for enteric fever in children. Rural children faced higher risks. Children exposed to untreated water were 2.1 times more likely to develop enteric fever than those not exposed, with this result being statistically significant. The findings underscore the need for improvement on water quality, sanitation, and socioeconomic conditions. Local health authorities should prioritize these areas to reduce enteric fever incidence, with further research recommended on intervention effectiveness.