What are the causes of UTI? UTIs are caused by bacteria getting into the bladder from the kidneys. The following predispose to UTIs: * In small children, the use of diapers is a very common contributing factor. If the child passes stool that is not cleaned for a long time, the stool that contains bacteria can be a source of infection. This is particularly true in small girls as compared to boys as their urethra is shorter and can be infected easily. * In older children improper cleaning can also be a cause. Wiping back to front pulls stool into the vaginal area from where it can travel up. * Long intervals between urination can be another cause as this weakens the bladder muscles. Some urine is left in the bladder that can be a source of infections. * In women who are sexually active bacteria may be transferred from the anal and vaginal area to the urethra and then the bladder. * If water intake is low, urination will be less and bacteria that might have entered the bladder will have more time to multiply and grow leading to infections. What are the symptoms? * Frequent urination with only small amounts of urine. * Burning or pain when urinating. * Urine that smells bad or is cloudy or at times contains blood. * Diarrhoea and vomiting. * Lower back pain. * Fever with chills and shivering.