Classify dysentery
There is only one classification for dysentery; see Box 5.8 below:
Box 5.8 Classification for dysentery
Classify a child with diarrhoea and blood in the stool as having dysentery.
Treatment
You should treat the child’s dehydration in the same way as outlined earlier in this study session and give cotrimoxazole. Table 5.3 below sets out which antibiotics should be given and the correct dosage according to the weight (or age) of the child.
| Age (weight in kg) | Adult tablets | Paediatric tablets | Syrup in ml |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 months up to 12 months | ½ | 2 | 5 |
| 12 months up to 5 years | 1 | 3 | 7.5 |
Last modified: Thursday, 10 July 2014, 3:42 PM