Determinants of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in children under five years of agein Argentina

Abstract

Introduction: hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), associated with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), is a leading cause of acute renal failure in children under five years of age. In Argentina, its high incidence reflects challenges in access to drinking water, food hygiene and health education.
Objective: to evaluate the determinants of the incidence of HUS in Argentine children, focusing on hygiene practices, food consumption, access to water and knowledge of caregivers.
Method: observational and descriptive study with three phases: literature review, survey to 33 parents of children <5 years old (food habits, hygiene, knowledge of HUS) and comparative analysis with data from the National Epidemiological Bulletin.
Results: 90,9 % of respondents resided in urban areas, with access to treated water (81,8 %) and high hygiene practices (84,8 % hand washing). However, risks persist: 48,5 % consume unpasteurized products, 33,3 % do not use separate cutting boards and 30,3 % do not know about HUS. The Bulletin highlights higher incidence in rural areas with poor infrastructure and in hot seasons. Cross-contamination and food handling in restaurants were factors highlighted.
Conclusions: the incidence of HUS in Argentina is linked to gaps in the rigorous implementation of hygiene practices, unequal access to drinking water and lack of knowledge about prevention. Educational campaigns, improvement of sanitary infrastructure and food controls are recommended, especially in vulnerable areas and during periods of higher risk. The integration of public policies and community education could reduce the burden of the disease in the child population.