Pneumonia

Ensuring that children are warm, dry and living in sanitary conditions as well as having access to childhood vaccinations are essential ways to prevent Pneumonia

Pneumonia

The Facts:

  • Pneumonia kills some 1.2 million children under age five each year (18% of under-five deaths);
  • It is the number one killer of children under the age of five;
  • 99% of all children who die from pneumonia live in developing countries.

The Situation:

Children of all ages, but particularly those under five, are vulnerable to respiratory infections that can lead to life-threatening pneumonia.

Pneumonia is not a single disease. It is a condition caused by many different bacteria or viral attacks. When children are warm, well nourished and clean, their immune systems are much more likely to overcome these infections before they cause pneumonia.

The condition leads to severe breathing difficulties, lung damage and often internal bleeding. However, it is treatable through antibiotics and careful monitoring, usually within hospitals to ensure the symptoms are kept in check. Where children do not have access to healthcare of this sort, the mortality rate from pneumonia is alarmingly high.

What causes pneumonia?

  • Bacterial infections in the lower respiratory tract;
  • A reduced immunity or underdeveloped lungs in infants and newborns, particularly those born prematurely;
  • Viral infections including pneumococcus and influenza, often highly contagious.

What can be done about it?

To reduce the causes of pneumonia in children:

  • Exclusive breastfeeding to strengthen immune systems;
  • A nutritional diet for all children under five;
  • Early detection and isolation of viral infections to reduce contagion;
  • Ensuring that children are warm, dry and living in sanitary conditions;
  • Childhood vaccinations including Hib (against haemophilius influenza) and Pneumococcal (against streptococcus pneumonia.

To reduce the effects of pneumonia in children:

  • Paediatric healthcare including regular checkups and treatment for coughs and colds;
  • Access to the right treatment and medication for diagnosed cases of pneumonia.