Caregivers’ Perceptions of Causes and Treatment of Fever and Diarrhea among Under-Fives in Ile Ife

Abstract

Fever and diarrhoea account for a significant portion of under-five mortality in Nigeria. This might be related to the perceptions of caregivers on the causes, which could influence the treatment they proffer. The study was conducted among caregivers in Ife central Local Government. Most mothers perceived that fever could be caused by malaria, teething, hot weather, cough and that diarrhea could be caused by teething, eating contaminated food, drink and water, dirty environment and feeding bottles. Illness behavior was poor, as most waited at least one day after the onset of symptoms before taking any action. Choice of treatment was mostly influenced by health education messages received from health workers and mass media. Caregivers had a fairly correct perception of the causes of fever, but had incorrect perceptions of the causes of diarrhea. There is need to educate caregivers on the causes of diarrhea, and appropriate treatment measures.