Frequency and Management of Childhood Diarrhoeal Disease at a Community Health Centre in Abia State

Background: Diarrhoeal disease remains a leading cause of childhood mortality in Nigeria, and its management at primary care level is central to achieving child survival targets. This study examines the frequency and management practices of childhood diarrhoeal disease at a community health centre in Abia State, South East geopolitical zone. Methods: A retrospective review of case notes of children aged under five years presenting with diarrhoea over a two-year period was conducted. Data on clinical presentation, management approach, and outcomes were extracted and analysed descriptively using SPSS version 25. Results: Acute watery diarrhoea was the most common presentation. Oral rehydration therapy was administered in the majority of cases, though incorrect preparation instructions were noted. Antibiotic overprescription was observed in a proportion of cases without documented indication. Conclusion: While basic management practices are largely in place at this community health centre, gaps in adherence to evidence-based guidelines persist. Family medicine practitioners must lead in standardising diarrhoea management protocols and training lower-cadre health workers in Abia State. Keywords: childhood diarrhoea, oral rehydration therapy, community health, Abia State, case management