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After nearly 28 years, The Communication Initiative (The CI) Global is entering a new chapter. Following a period of transition, the global website has been transferred to the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in South Africa, where it will be administered by the Social and Behaviour Change Communication Division. Wits' commitment to social change and justice makes it a trusted steward for The CI's legacy and future.
 
Co-founder Victoria Martin is pleased to see this work continue under Wits' leadership. Victoria knows that co-founder Warren Feek (1953–2024) would have felt deep pride in The CI Global's Africa-led direction.
 
We honour the team and partners who sustained The CI for decades. Meanwhile, La Iniciativa de Comunicación (CILA) continues independently at cila.comminitcila.com and is linked with The CI Global site.
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Medication use and abuse in childhood diarrhoeal diseases by caregivers reporting to a Nigerian tertiary health institution

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Uchendu, U. O., A. N. Ikefuna, et al. (2009). "Medication use and abuse in childhood diarrhoeal diseases by caregivers reporting to a Nigerian tertiary health institution." SAJCH South African Journal of Child Health 3(3): 83-89.

Background. Childhood diarrhoeal diseases have a major impact on morbidity and mortality. Prompt and appropriate interventions improve outcome.

Objectives. To evaluate the practice of mothers/caregivers with respect to use of antibacterial and antimotility drugs.

Methods. Caregivers of under-5s presenting from catchment areas of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital between October 2006 and February 2007 were interviewed by means of a structured questionnaire. Data obtained included perception of cause of diarrhoea, use of oral rehydration therapy (ORT) fluids, and use of antibacterial and antimotility drugs.

Results. Caregivers of 156 children met the inclusion criteria. Most mothers (53%) believed that the diarrhoea was caused by teething and 51% had used antibiotics (the commonest was metronidazole). Use of antibiotics was not influenced by the perceived cause of diarrhoea, level of maternal education or social status. Drug use delayed the time of presentation and was associated with more severe dehydration.

Conclusion. We found that home treatment of acute diarrhoea is characterised by unnecessary use of antibiotics and antidiarrhoeal agents. Intermittent public health campaigns and health care worker updates on the use of ORT and zinc supplements are needed. The latter may also satisfy caregivers' urge to give 'medicine' while at the same time reducing antibiotic abuse and drug resistance.