A Review on Prevention Interventions to Decrease Diarrheal Diseases’ Burden in Children

Purpose of Review: Provide an overview about childhood diarrhea burden and prevention interventions with demonstrated impact in reducing disease risk. Recent Findings: Diarrhea incidence and mortality in children is declining around the world. A few pathogens cause most of the burden (rotavirus, norovirus, Shigella, enterotoxigenic E. coli, Campylobacter, and Cryptosporidium). Available rotavirus vaccines have demonstrated to significantly decrease diarrhea hospital admissions and mortality. WASH interventions, especially point of use water safety improvements and handwashing, are effective in decreasing diarrhea burden. Early and exclusive breastfeeding prevents early childhood diarrhea. Summary: Diarrhea in children under 5 years old is still among the most important causes of mortality in middle- and low-income countries. However, diarrhea complications and deaths are preventable. Vaccines, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and breastfeeding are effective and affordable interventions. Future research should determine the effectiveness of combining these interventions and address problems in implementation and integration of interventions.