The Reducing Childhood Diarrhea (RCD) project in Xieng Khouang province combines community mobilization, education, and simple technologies to reduce the impact of diarrhea on children’s health. Chosen villages are on track to become Model Healthy Villages through increased access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), the work of trained community leaders and the establishment of disease surveillance systems and mapping.
This factsheet summarizes the goals and accomplishments of the RCD project so far. Through the collaboration of World Education and the Laos Ministry of Health, over 250 latrines have been constructed and there has been a 50% reduction in diarrhea cases since the project began. The reporting of cases through SMS has been key to this reduction.