How Do You Make An Oral Rehydration Salts Drink (ORS)?
• Purchase the required quantity of ORS. In most countries, ORS packets are available from health centres, pharmacies, markets and shops. • Put the contents of the ORS packet in a clean container. Check the packet for directions and add the correct amount of clean water. Too little water could make the diarrhoea worse. • Add water only. Do not add ORS to milk, soup, fruit juice or soft drinks. Do not add sugar. • Stir well, and feed it to the child from a clean cup. Do not use a bottle. Try an alternative method if you are unable to get ORS. This requires salt, sugar and clean water: • Place 4 level teaspoons of sugar and a half a level teaspoon of salt into one litre of clean water. • Allow the salt and sugar to dissolve. • Be very careful to mix the correct amounts, as too much sugar can make the diarrhoea worse, and too much salt can be extremely harmful to the child. If the mixture is made a little too diluted no harm can be done and there is very little loss of effectiveness.
