Simple approach to acute respiratory infection in rural underfive children

Abstract

The feasibility of acute respiratory infection (ARI) control in 5,535 rural preschool children was studied. The Primary Health Centre (PHC) staff and local practitioners (drug distribution centres) were identified and trained in recognition of moderate/severe ARI, referral, drug administration and in the education of the community. Functional ARI classification as envisaged in ARI control programme was followed. There was significant reduction in moderate (42% reduction) and severe (89% reduction) ARI episodes from year 1985 to 1987. Both ARI (27.8%) and non-ARI (18.3%) deaths showed reduction. Majority of children who died due to ARI were also unimmunized. The moderate and severe ARI related morbidity and mortality was significantly reduced in immunized children compared to unimmunized children. Although, strategies of National ARI control programme by health education, standard case management and strengthening of immunization is a good thought but it is clear that proper implementation of immunizations is going to pay more dividends. It is also evident that the local medical practitioners should be trained and involved in this control programme to have community faith as well as to avoid opposition.