A concerning trend has been observed currently, with a significant rise of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among students. A high number of children are now falling victim to this painful condition due to the culprit- dirty toilets. The issue lies in the lack of education related to basic hygiene and maintenance within educational institutions. Many school and college toilets remain uncleaned for extended periods. In these conditions, harmful bacteria thrive, leading to UTIs.
What Is UTI?
UTI occurs when bacteria, usually E.coli, enter the urethra and travel up the urinary tract, infecting the kidneys, bladder, or ureters. Dirty toilets can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can lead to UTIs in children. In addition, dirty toilets are also primarily responsible for girls suppressing the urge to urinate. If a person holds back this urge for up to four hours, the bacteria count in their body doubles, potentially resulting in the spread of infection and the development of UTI.
"UTIs are not only painful, but they can also have long-term health consequences if left untreated. Children are at a higher risk of contracting UTIs because their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to infections. Inadequate hygiene practices, such as not properly washing hands or not wiping properly after using the toilet, can introduce harmful bacteria into the urinary tract," said Dr Atul Palwe, who is a Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, Lulla Nagar, Pune
Symptoms Of UTI:
UTIs don't discriminate against age when it comes to causing discomfort and distress; they affect children just like adults. Dr Samrat Shah, who is an Internal Medicine Expert at Apollo Spectra Pune said, "The symptoms of UTI are frequent urination, accompanied by pain or a burning sensation. Children may also experience bedwetting. Parents need to be vigilant and look out for signs such as persistent fever, foul-smelling urine, and abdominal pain. In some cases, UTIs in children can go unnoticed or be misdiagnosed as other conditions such as bladder infections or kidney problems. This highlights the necessity of seeking medical attention when parents suspect that the child may have a UTI."
"Girls are more prone to developing UTIs due to their shorter urethra and its proximity to the anus, making it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Encouraging young girls to wipe from front to back after using the toilet helps prevent the spread of bacteria that could cause UTIs. Being able to recognise potential UTI symptoms early on allows parents to seek appropriate treatment promptly and prevent further problems like vomiting, tiredness, and lethargy," he added.
Risk Factors For Children:
Dr Vishal Parmar, who is a consultant Pediatrician of Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road said, "Children face a heightened susceptibility to urinary tract infections (UTIs) when exposed to unhygienic toilets. The close proximity of young children to toilets increases the likelihood of their encountering harmful bacteria and germs. This risk is further magnified by their tendency to touch various bathroom surfaces without adequate hand hygiene, thereby elevating the chances of contracting UTIs. Due to a lack of awareness or capability, children may struggle to maintain clean toilet habits, rendering them more vulnerable to UTIs in unsanitary conditions."
Preventive Measures That Can Be Taken:
"It's essential to clean and disinfect toilets regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Neglecting this task not only increases the chances of UTIs but also exposes children to other gastrointestinal illnesses caused by ingesting fecal matter or coming into contact with contaminated surfaces. A clean toilet reduces the risk of bacterial transmission and keeps our little ones safe from potential infections. Consequently, integrating hand hygiene education becomes crucial in raising awareness about maintaining clean facilities and preventing the spread of infection-causing bacteria. Schools and colleges need to recognize the alarming increase in UTI cases among their student population due to dirty toilets. This issue calls for immediate action to improve sanitation practices within educational environments. By prioritizing regular cleaning schedules, implementing proper hygiene protocols, and educating students about preventive measures like thorough hand washing after toilet use, it is possible to mitigate the spread of UTIs among children," said Dr Atul Palwe.