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When setting up a WASH response programme it is important to
consider the safe management of children’s faeces. Child faeces are generally more dangerous than
adults’ faeces as excreta related infections are usually higher in children, with a higher prevalence
of diarrhoea and soil transmitted helminth infections.
In the initial WASH assessment phase,
interviews with parents or caregivers will help to determine the correct action with regard to the
management of children’s faeces.
Main factors to consider are:
Infrastructure – The sanitation hard wear should consider use by
children, in some cases specific child-friendly latrines can be built for example: a more open
structure, smaller squat hole and a bar for the children to old onto. Non Food Items’s – After
consultation with parents, age appropriate containment products can be distributed such as nappies
and potties. If disposable nappies are being distributed a safe collection and management system
should be in place to prevent the nappies causing increased public health risk. Hygiene Promotion:
training and awareness raising measures are crucial to ensure whatever measure are in place work to
contain the child’s faeces safely This includes conveying hygiene messages to caregivers and
children on the importance of washing hands with soap after contact with child excreta, washing the
child after defecation by the caregiver.