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Integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI) and integrated community case management (iCCM) are vital strategies outlined by WHO to improve child health, particularly in low-resource settings. These interventions focus on reducing morbidity and mortality from common childhood illnesses through a comprehensive approach.

• IMCI: IMCI is a strategy aimed at enhancing the quality of care in health care facilities. It includes training health workers to assess and classify illnesses such as pneumonia, diarrhoea, malaria and malnutrition in children under 5 years. Health workers are equipped to provide appropriate treatments, counsel caregivers on home management and promote preventive measures, including vaccination and nutrition. The aim is to ensure timely diagnosis and effective management of childhood illnesses, ultimately reducing mortality rates.
• iCCM: iCCM extends the principles of IMCI to community settings, enabling trained community health workers to diagnose and treat common childhood illnesses. This approach improves access to care for children in remote areas where health facilities may be lacking. iCCM includes treatment for conditions such as pneumonia, diarrhoea and malaria, alongside education on hygiene and nutrition.

Overall, both IMCI and iCCM aim to reduce child mortality and improve health outcomes by ensuring that children receive timely, quality care for common illnesses, thereby enhancing their chances of survival and healthy development.

The well child approach, as detailed in WHO documents, emphasizes the importance of regular health check-ups for children to promote optimal health and development. The key interventions associated with this approach aim to ensure that children remain healthy and are monitored for early signs of developmental issues.

• Routine health assessments: Well child visits provide systematic health evaluations, which include monitoring growth and development, assessing physical and emotional well-being, and identifying any health concerns early.
• Immunization: Ensuring timely vaccinations is a cornerstone of the well child approach. This protects children from preventable diseases, significantly reducing morbidity and mortality rates.
• Nutritional assessment and counselling: Health professionals assess dietary intake and nutritional status, providing guidance on healthy feeding practices, breastfeeding and appropriate complementary foods to promote growth.
• Parental education: These visits serve as an opportunity to educate parents about child development milestones, health promotion and disease prevention strategies, fostering an understanding of nurturing care.
• Developmental screening: Regular screenings help identify potential developmental delays or concerns, allowing for timely interventions and support.

The well child approach aims to enhance child health outcomes, reduce the incidence of preventable diseases, support healthy growth and development, and empower families with knowledge and resources.