Resource Library

Increasing the Use of ORS and Zinc through the Private Sector

In Kenya, diarrhea is the second leading cause of sickness and death in children under 5, contributing to 9 percent of deaths (Countdown to 2015 Report, 2012). Childhood mortality can be reduced by increasing public awareness and use of ORS and zinc to manage diarrhea in children under 5. When these medicines are used together, the results are lifesaving. Diarrhea treatment is a critical focus also for achieving global targets for human development, including Ending Preventable Child and Maternal Deaths and Sustainable Development Goals.

In just over three years, with limited resources, the SHOPS Kenya team led a multipronged approach to increase availability of ORS and
zinc, by partnering with local manufacturers and suppliers to reach health providers and retailers and by raising awareness with demand generating activities to reach caregivers.