Dariel Gichana O., 1

Dariel is a one-year-old boy and the firstborn child of his single mother, Jolene. They live in an informal settlement in Nairobi. Jolene survives by washing clothes for households in a nearby estate, but the work is irregular and her limited earnings are often only enough for basic food and shelter. Despite these difficulties, she works hard to provide for her son. Dariel became unwell with high fever, frequent watery diarrhoea, repeated vomiting, poor appetite and increasing body weakness. Oral medication given initially did not improve his condition. Instead, he deteriorated, becoming increasingly lethargic, unable to feed properly and less responsive and playful than usual. The persistent vomiting and diarrhoea left him visibly dehydrated and exhausted. With assistance from a Community Health Worker and a Helpster volunteer, Dariel was urgently taken to Rheemah Hospital. Clinical assessment and investigations confirmed bacterial pneumonia, severe dehydration and acute diarrhoea. Given his young age and poor clinical condition, he was immediately admitted for rehydration, appropriate treatment, supportive care and close monitoring.

Dariel was diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia, severe dehydration and acute diarrhoea after presenting with high fever, persistent vomiting and diarrhoea, poor feeding, marked weakness and lethargy. In a one-year-old, this combination can rapidly cause electrolyte disturbances, shock, respiratory compromise and organ dysfunction, making urgent admission and rehydration necessary. Appropriate antibiotics, fluids, nutritional support and close monitoring are essential. With prompt treatment and a good clinical response, Dariel’s prognosis is favourable, with full recovery expected.