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ORS AND ZINC

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) and zinc is the global standard for diarrhea treatment.

In its simplest presentation, ORS is a mix of water, sugar, and salt. This combination speeds replacement of fluids in the body. It has saved millions of lives and costs just pennies.

Following ORS, a course of zinc, a micronutrient, reduces the duration and severity of diarrhea. Zinc strengthens the immune system, helps speed recovery, and may prevent diarrhea episodes for up to three months.

Globally, less than half of children have access to ORS, and access to the ORS + zinc is 15%. Access is often lowest where the burden is highest.

In July 2019, the World Health Organization added co-packaged ORS and zinc to its Essential Medicines List, a policy document that will help encourage countries to also prioritize the co-pack in their expenditures, procurement and supply, and training of healthcare providers.

A graphic with text on a dark background. It reads, "Access to ORS and zinc could prevent more than half of diarrhea deaths." Next to the text is a large "1/2" with a downward arrow in white and yellow paint strokes. The website address "DEFEATDD.org" is at the bottom right.

A global map illustrating the availability of essential medicines, showing various regions' distribution of ORS and zinc. Different colors highlight areas with ORS and zinc co-pack, ORS or zinc individually, zinc only, or neither, with a key on the left. Title: "ORS and Zinc Essential Medicines Listings, 2018".

A person opens an Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) packet on the left, while another person holds a spoon with liquid on the right. The design features the text "ORS + Zinc" with a jersey numbered 07 and the word "DefeatDD.

A woman in a bright yellow shawl sits on a hospital bed, feeding a young child from a spoon. The child, dressed in orange, looks up at her while lying on her lap. The setting appears to be a hospital or clinic.

Ever heard of the saying, "Small things can make a big difference?" Take the humble packet of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), for example: a simple yet effective lifesaver

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STATE OF THE FIELD REPORT

The success of ORS and zinc treatment depends on community awareness, affordability, and uptake. Co-packaged ORS and zinc can help address access gaps, and precision mapping can help reveal where availability is still low.

Read the Report