Precious N., 4

Precious is a cheerful 4-year-old girl living at a Home in Nairobi. She is an orphan who enjoys playing football, watching cartoons and interacting with other children. Precious was placed at the home about a year ago after her only guardian could no longer adequately provide for her and sometimes had to leave her alone for long periods. With the intervention of local authorities, she was moved to the children’s home for safety and care. The home relies on well-wishers and donors for the children’s food, education and healthcare. Precious had been well until three days before admission, when she developed diarrhoea, vomiting and generalized weakness. Despite initial treatment at a local facility, her condition worsened, prompting referral for further care. Following clinical assessment and investigations, she was diagnosed with typhoid fever, rotaviral enteritis and acute gastritis. She was admitted for rehydration, appropriate treatment and close monitoring.

Precious had been in good health until three days prior to admission, when Mutua, a volunteer at the children’s home, noticed that she had developed diarrhea, vomiting, and general body weakness. Her condition continued to deteriorate despite receiving initial treatment at a local health facility. She was therefore brought to the hospital for further evaluation and specialized medical care. Following a thorough clinical examination and the necessary laboratory investigations, Precious was diagnosed with typhoid fever, rotaviral enteritis, and acute gastroenteritis. She was subsequently admitted to the hospital for close observation, rehydration, and appropriate medical management. During her admission, Precious received intravenous (IV) Ceftriaxone 500 mg, IV Dextrose 300 mL, IV Ondansetron 4 mg, IV Normal Saline, IV Paracetamol, and Metronidazole 150 mg. She was also administered oral Ondansetron syrup as needed for the management of vomiting and nausea. Following clinical improvement, she was discharged on oral Zincat once daily (OD), Enterogermina, and Metronidazole syrup. She responded well to treatment and was discharged in a stable condition, with the prescribed medications and appropriate follow-up advice. The treatment provided was aimed at controlling her symptoms, preventing and correcting dehydration, treating the underlying infections, and supporting her overall recovery.

The prognosis for Preciuos is good, provided she continues to receive appropriate medical follow-up, maintains good hygiene, has access to safe drinking water and adequate nutrition, and receives prompt treatment should similar symptoms recur. Continued family support and regular healthcare monitoring will help promote her full recovery and reduce the risk of future gastrointestinal infections. Rotaviral enteritis with acute gastritis causes vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration in the child. Early treatment promotes recovery and prevents complications. If left untreated, it can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, shock, and may become life-threatening.