Access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services is essential for preventing infectious diseases in children, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This study assessed the effectiveness of WASH interventions in reducing the incidence of diarrheal diseases among children under five years old. A longitudinal study was conducted in three rural districts, involving 2,800 households receiving WASH interventions including clean water provision, latrine construction, hygiene education, and handwashing promotion. Child health outcomes were monitored over 18 months. The incidence of diarrheal episodes decreased by 45% post-intervention (p < 0.001), and improvements in handwashing practices were observed in 78% of households. Socioeconomic factors such as parental education and household income were associated with differential program effectiveness. These findings demonstrate that integrated WASH programs are highly effective in improving child health and reducing infectious disease burden and support their continued expansion in resource-limited settings.

Keywords:
WASH, child health, diarrhea, water and sanitation, public health, infectious disease