Uttar Pradesh Launches 'Stop Diarrhoea' Campaign To Protect Children Under Five

Lucknow: To combat the high burden of diarrhoea among children under five, the Uttar Pradesh government has launched its annual ‘Stop Diarrhoea’ campaign, which will run across the state until July 31. The initiative focuses on raising awareness, promoting hygiene, and encouraging early use of ORS and zinc.

The campaign, launched by the State Health Department, aims to ensure timely action and community-level engagement. Mobile awareness vans fitted with posters and audio messages are visiting localities to educate families about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of diarrhoea.

Wall writings, school competitions, and ORS-Zinc corners at public health centres are key features of the campaign.

This year’s theme "Prevention of Diarrhoea, Cleanliness, and Self-Care with ORS", highlights the importance of preventive measures alongside treatment. In partnership with NGOs like PSI India and Kenvue, the campaign is running in targeted districts including Firozabad, Mathura, Moradabad, Badaun, Unnao, Gonda, and Shravasti.

Speaking about the effort, Dr. Pinky Joval, Director of the National Health Mission, stressed that diarrhoea remains a leading cause of illness and death in children, despite being preventable and treatable.

“Clean drinking water, good sanitation, handwashing, and timely ORS use are crucial,” she said.

Health workers, including ASHAs, have been mobilised to sensitise families and distribute ORS packets. Dr. Milind Vardhan, General Manager of the Child Health Program, added that children with three or more loose motions a day should be treated immediately to prevent dehydration.

Highlighting the seasonal spike during monsoons, PSI India’s Executive Director Mukesh Sharma urged families to prioritise hygiene, especially handwashing and safe food practices. The campaign combines public outreach with clinical preparedness to prevent avoidable child deaths due to diarrhoea.