Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection mainly caused by viruses or bacteria.
Its severity can range from mild to life-threatening and can affect people of all ages.
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However, it is especially concerning as the leading infectious cause of death in children worldwide.
In 2017, pneumonia caused over 808,000 deaths in children under five, accounting for 15% of all deaths in this age group.
Adults over 65 and those with existing health conditions are also at a higher risk for developing pneumonia.
The lungs contain small air sacs called alveoli, which normally fill with air when breathing.
During pneumonia, these alveoli become filled with pus and fluid, leading to painful breathing and impaired oxygen intake.
Pneumonia is typically transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals.
Vaccination is a critical preventive measure against pneumonia.
Symptoms
Pneumonia symptoms can vary in severity and may include:
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever with sweating and shaking chills
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Confusion, especially in older adults
Treatment
Bacterial pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, with amoxicillin dispersible tablets being the preferred option.
Most cases are treated with oral antibiotics, which can typically be prescribed at health centers.
Trained community health workers can diagnose and treat many cases with affordable oral antibiotics at the community level.
Severe cases may require hospitalization.
In addition to medication, rest and staying hydrated are important for recovery.
Prevention
Pneumonia risk can be reduced through the following measures:
- Vaccination: Immunizations against Hib, pneumococcus, measles, influenza, and whooping cough are key to prevention.
- Hand hygiene: Frequent handwashing, especially when caring for sick individuals or after nose-blowing, helps stop the spread of germs.
- Environmental changes: Reducing indoor air pollution by using clean stoves and avoiding smoking lowers the risk of pneumonia.
- Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough rest support overall health.
- Proper nutrition: Ensuring proper nutrition strengthens the body’s natural defenses, starting with exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.
