IMPROVING THE PREVENTION OF ACUTE INTESTINAL INFECTIONS IN KINDERGARTENS WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF PARENTS

Muydinov Iqboljon Ilxomjon ugli

Authors

Muydinov Iqboljon Ilxomjon ugli Department of Infectious Diseases, Andijan State Medical Institute

Keywords:

Acute intestinal infections, preschool children, parental involvement, hygiene education, prevention, kindergarten, public health.

Abstract

Background: Acute intestinal infections (AII) remain a leading cause of morbidity among preschool children, particularly in organized settings like kindergartens. Traditional prevention strategies often focus solely on staff training and facility sanitation. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an integrated prophylaxis model that actively involves parents in hygiene education and monitoring. Methods: A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted in 8 kindergartens in the Andijan region, involving 400 children and their parents. The kindergartens were divided into two groups: the Intervention Group (n=4), where a "Parents as Hygiene Partners" program was implemented (seminars, home checklists, WhatsApp groups), and the Control Group (n=4), which followed standard sanitary protocols. Incidence of AII and parental hygiene knowledge were assessed over 6 months. Results: The incidence of AII in the Intervention Group decreased by 42.5% compared to baseline, whereas the Control Group saw only a 5.0% reduction (p < 0.01). Parental knowledge scores regarding handwashing and food safety significantly improved in the Intervention Group (from 45% to 88%). Conclusion: Active parental involvement creates a continuous "hygiene loop" between home and kindergarten, significantly reducing the burden of intestinal infections. This model should be scaled up in preschool education systems.

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