Diarrheal diseases are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among children in Bangladesh. This not only impacts their overall health but their ability to attend and perform well in school. Children with diarrhea tend to eat less, and their bodies cannot absorb all the nutrients from the foods they consume, which can ultimately lead to undernutrition and stunting. However, numerous studies show that knowing when and how to wash hands with soap properly can prevent infections and save lives.
Thrive has held hygiene presentations at schools to promote awareness and understanding about hand washing to students, their family members, teachers, and other school staff. Thrive shares information on the relationship between hygiene practices, children’s nutritional health, and academic performance. It also addressed the critical times for hand washing: before cooking, before eating, after using the toilet, cleaning a baby’s bottom, and before and after taking care of a sick person. The presentation was well-received by everyone who attended, and students were eager to share what they learned with others in their community. The schools now keep soap available for students and staff, and hand washing has become routine.
By Rose Blanchard, Thrive Advisor Council and Public Health Professional
