An epidemiological profile of gastro-enteritis deaths in Delhi state

This paper describes epidemiological features of 75 gastro-enteritis deaths that occured in 22 major hospitals of Delhi during 1990-92. Three fourth's of deaths were in under five years of age group and more than half were infants. In 84 per cent, diarrhoea was of an acute watery type. Dehydration was the commonest immediate cause of death, while malnutrition was the commonest associated cause. No ORS/SSS/HAF was given to one fourth of the patients. Close relatives of two third's of deceased were either not aware at all about ORS/SSS or had incorrect information. In 87 per cent, food intake was either stopped or had been restricted. The study emphasizes the need for an intensive IEC campaign for prevention, and for better case management in the hospitals coupled with appropriate reorientation training of private practitioners.