Bronchitis among children

            As per the DLHS 2 (2002-04) and DLHS 3 (2007-08), the incidence of Acute Respiratory infections in children under 3 years of age shows a declining trend, with 16.6 % and 11.4% respectively having symptoms suggestive of acute respiratory infection in the two weeks preceding the survey.  

             Under the reproductive and Child Health programme, the health care providers are being trained in Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illnesses so that they develop the skills to treat conditions like bronchitis as well as the entire spectrum of Acute Respiratory Infections.

Drugs required for treatment of all ARIs including Bronchitis are being funded under NRHM to be provided free of cost to the children treated at health facilities.

             Various measures taken by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to tackle the problem include the following:

1.      Promotion of Infant and Young Child Feeding practices including exclusive breastfeeding for first 6 months: Breastfeeding is known to have a protective effect against common childhood illnesses.

2.      Vitamin A supplementation to children 6 months- 5 years: Vitamin A reduces the severity of respiratory infections in children especially those with malnutrition and with Vitamin A deficiency.

3.         Training of Frontline workers: ASHAs are being trained in the diagnosis and management of acute respiratory infections at community level.  INMCI is a training package that is being delivered to ANMs and LHVs to build their skills to treat respiratory infections.

4.         Provision of medicines: Drugs recommended for treatment are being provided at the sub centre level. They are also a part of ASHA drug kit in many states.