Children with persistent diarrhoea should be referred to hospital for investigation and further management. Correct dehydration if present. Offer oral rehydration solution even if the child is not visibly dehydrated. Consider HIV in any child with persistent diarrhoea.
The stool should be cultured and examined under a microscope in an attempt to identify the cause. Secondary lactose intolerance is common. Often a lactose free formula (Isomil, Infasoy) is given for a few weeks.