12th November was World Pneumonia day

We bring you a few things you need know about pneumonia

• Pneumonia accounts for 14% of all deaths of children under 5 years old, killing 740 180 children in 2019
• Pneumonia can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi.
• Pneumonia can be prevented by immunization, adequate nutrition, and by addressing environmental factors.
• Pneumonia caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, but only one third of children with pneumonia receive the antibiotics they need.
• Pneumonia is a form of acute respiratory infection that affects the lungs. The lungs are made up of small sacs called alveoli, which fill with air when a healthy person breathes. When an individual has pneumonia, the alveoli are filled with pus and fluid, which makes breathing painful and limits oxygen intake.
• Pneumonia is the single largest infectious cause of death in children worldwide.

Causes

Pneumonia is caused by a number of infectious agents, including viruses. Some of the most common viruses that can cause pneumonia include the flu virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the coronavirus. Bacterial pneumonia is often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, but can also be caused by other types of bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae and Legionella pneumophila. Fungal pneumonia is less common and is usually caused by exposure to environmental fungi such as Aspergillus.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pneumonia can vary depending on the age of the patient, the underlying cause of the infection, and the severity of the illness. Some common symptoms of pneumonia include:

• Fever and chills
• Cough, with or without mucus
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (more common in children)

Treatment

The treatment of pneumonia will depend on the underlying cause of the infection. Pneumonia caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, while viral pneumonia will typically resolve on its own with rest and supportive care. In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed to treat viral pneumonia. In addition to medication, individuals with pneumonia may need supportive care such as oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and rest. It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of pneumonia, especially if you are at higher risk for complications such as young children, older adults, and those with underlying medical conditions.