THE FRUGAL INNOVATION

Context: Richard cash, physician and global health scholar,
died on October 22 at the age of 83 in his home in Cambridge, US. With his
long-time collaborator, David Nalin, Richard conducted the first clinical
trials of Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) in cholera patients in Bangladesh in the
late 1960s, demonstrating that this low-cost intervention could effectively and
safely reduce intravenous fluid needs. The most important feature of this discovery
was its simplicity: Boiled water, sugar and salt, a mixture which could be
cooked up in any kitchen and was virtually free. According to one estimate, ORT
saved more than 80 million lives, particularly children, since its inception.

Oral Rehydration Therapy

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About: Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is a treatment for
dehydration that involves drinking a solution of water, glucose, and salts.
It's the first line of treatment for mild to moderate dehydration caused by
acute gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu. ORT is an effective,
safe, and inexpensive alternative to intravenous (IV) therapy. Some
commercially available ORT preparations include Pedialyte, Enfalyte, and
Rehydralyte.

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Working: The solution passes from the digestive system into
the bloodstream in about five minutes.

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Use: For mild to moderate dehydration caused by acute
gastroenteritis. Children who are accepting fluids orally, unless they are
vomiting excessively or have underlying disorders.

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Procedure: In small, frequent amounts using a spoon or dropper.

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Drawbacks: Nausea, vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite,
confusion, severe thirst, and kidney damage. Consulting a doctor is recommended
if one experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, weakness, poor appetite,
confusion, or excessive thirst after consuming ORS. These symptoms might
indicate salt toxicity.