32.5  Prevention and control of faeco-oral diseases

Effective prevention and control measures can interrupt faeco-oral transmission of infectious agents by targeting the different routes of transmission mentioned earlier and summarised in Figure 32.2. As you remember, the sources and modes of transmission to be targeted are: hands, food, water, utensils, soil and flies contaminated with faeces. Most of the prevention and control measures are relatively simple and easy to apply. You have an important role in educating your community by explaining what simple steps can be taken to reduce the risk of faeco-oral diseases. So, in addition to the effective treatment of cases, you need to help families put into effect the measures outlined below.