Joseph O., 13

Joseph is the youngest of five siblings and attends a local village school, where he is a Grade Five student. When well, Joseph enjoys playing football. Joseph's mother is a casual laborer working on farms and doing laundry to support the family. His father left for Nairobi about a year ago and has since not returned or provided any support, leaving the mother solely responsible for the household. Joseph had been in good health until two days prior, when he developed a fever that progressively worsened. This was accompanied by restlessness and irritability. He later developed multiple episodes of vomiting, which were large in volume and foul-smelling, making it difficult for him to retain anything orally. Due to financial constraints, his mother initially kept him at home as she tried to gather resources. Once she was able to raise a small amount, she took him to a health facility, although it was still insufficient to cover the required costs. At the hospital, laboratory investigations revealed severe dehydration and severe malaria, along with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis. They learnt about Helpster Charity while at the hospital.

Joseph was admitted at the children's ward after diagnosed with gastroenteritis with malaria a condition which required immediate admission. He was administered with IV Artesunate, paracetamol, IV fluids RL altiernating with dextrose , IV metro and dinac which he started immediate positive response. Day three he was ready for home discharge and advised on drug adherence as per doctor prescription.

Joseph presented with severe malaria complicated by gastroenteritis and severe dehydration, as evidenced by high fever, persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, reduced oral intake, and general weakness. This combination placed him at high risk of rapid deterioration, particularly due to fluid loss and inability to retain feeds. Immediate admission was necessary, and he was started on intravenous antimalarial treatment, fluid resuscitation, and supportive care Joseph’s prognosis is favorable with timely and appropriate treatment. Most children recover well from severe malaria and gastroenteritis when managed early, especially with adequate rehydration and supportive care.