Epidemiological factors contributing to acute respiratory infection in under five children in an urban slum.

Abstract

Acute respiratory tract infection is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children below five years of age. Identification of risk factors for ARI will help in reducing the burden of disease. Objective of the study was to find out the prevalence and socioeconomic factors attributing to occurrence of ARI. Cross sectional study was carried out in an urban slum of Raichur. All the children (451) who were permanent residents and below 5years of age were included in the study. Prevalence rate of ARI at the time of survey was 16.6%. Higher prevalence was seen in children with low socio-economic status (88%), inadequate living condition (31%) and illiterate mothers (64%). Improving these epidemiological factors will help to reduce the burden of ARI.