By Sparsh Children’s Hospital, Dehradun
Expert Pediatric Care You Can Trust
On July 29th, the world comes together to celebrate World ORS Day, a global health observance dedicated to raising awareness about Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)—a simple, affordable, and life-saving treatment, especially crucial in pediatric healthcare.
At Sparsh Children’s Hospital, Dehradun, we’re proud to champion this cause with care, education, and community initiatives. Here’s everything you need to know to protect your child from dehydration.
🧪 What is ORS?
Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is a mixture of:
- ✅ Clean water
- ✅ Sugar (glucose)
- ✅ Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride)
💡 This solution helps replenish fluids and minerals lost due to diarrhoea, vomiting, or heat. It’s recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is safe for both children and adults.
🛡️ Why ORS is Essential for Children
| 📊 Stat/Insight | 💡 Why It Matters |
| Over 480,000 children die of diarrhoea yearly | ORS can prevent most of these deaths |
| Children dehydrate faster than adults | Smaller bodies lose fluids quickly |
| ORS sachet costs less than ₹10 | It’s affordable and effective |
| Rehydrates within minutes | Prevents hospitalization in many cases |
➡️ ORS is one of the most accessible tools in saving children’s lives.
🔬 How Does ORS Work?
ORS uses glucose to aid sodium absorption in the intestines, which then pulls water into the bloodstream. This:
- ⚡ Quickly restores hydration
- 💪 Prevents electrolyte imbalance
- 🛡️ Protects against shock, especially in children
🍼 Even infants can benefit from ORS, with correct dosage and pediatric guidance.
🚨 Know the Signs: Dehydration in Children
When a child is dehydrated, quick action is crucial. Here are the most common signs:
⚠️ Mild/Moderate Dehydration:
- Dry mouth and lips
- Sunken eyes
- Less frequent urination
- Irritability
❗ Severe Dehydration:
- No tears while crying
- Lethargy or unconsciousness
- Cold hands and feet
- Skin losing elasticity
📞 If you notice any of these signs, contact Sparsh Children’s Hospital, Dehradun immediately.
🏡 How to Make ORS at Home
ORS sachets are ideal, but in emergencies, homemade ORS can save lives.
🍶 Homemade ORS Recipe:
- 1 liter of boiled and cooled water
- 6 teaspoons of sugar
- ½ teaspoon of salt
✅ Mix thoroughly. Use within 24 hours.
⚠️ Avoid excess salt or sugar, which can be harmful.
🧠 Myths vs. Facts: Clearing Confusion Around ORS
| ❌ Common Myth | ✅ Medical Fact |
| ORS is only for diarrhea | ORS helps in all kinds of fluid loss – fever, vomiting, etc. |
| Energy drinks are just as good | They lack proper electrolyte balance |
| ORS stops diarrhoea | ORS treats dehydration, not the underlying illness |
| Babies don’t need ORS | Infants may need ORS under medical supervision |
🩺 What Sparsh Children’s Hospital is Doing in Dehradun
We’re committed to ensuring every child gets access to ORS and education around its use.
👨⚕️ Our Local Initiatives:
- 🏥 Free ORS Distribution Drives in Dehradun
- 🗣️ Awareness workshops for parents & schools
- 🚑 24/7 Emergency Pediatric Care
- 📋 NICU-compatible rehydration protocols
📍 We’re here not just as a hospital—but as a community partner in preventive healthcare.
📣 CTA: Let’s Work Together to Save Young Lives
ORS is a tool every parent should have in their home. This World ORS Day 2025, join us in spreading awareness and taking action.
👉 Need help or guidance?
- Call Sparsh Children’s Hospital, Dehradun: 📞 +91-XXXXXXXXXX
- Visit us: [Insert Hospital Address]
- Book a consultation: [Insert Online Booking Link]
👩⚕️ Our pediatricians are ready to support you with care and compassion.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I give ORS to a 3-month-old baby?
➡️ Yes, but only under pediatric guidance. Babies under 6 months are delicate.
Q2: How much ORS should I give my child?
✅ Children aged 1–5 years: ~100 ml after every loose stool.
🍼 Infants: smaller doses every few minutes, as advised by a doctor.
Q3: Is homemade ORS as effective as store-bought?
✅ Yes, if made in proper proportions with clean water.
Q4: Can I give ORS daily to prevent dehydration in summer?
❌ No. ORS is for treatment, not daily consumption. Use plain water and fluids to stay hydrated unless sick.
