Overview

Pneumonia is a kind of serious respiratory infection most generally caused by viruses or bacteria, and it can cause light to life-threatening illnesses. However, it causes the majority of infectious deaths in children under five.

Adults over the age of 65 and people with preexisting health problems also are at risk for pneumonia.

A pneumonic person's alveoli sacs in the lungs are filled with pus and fluid, making breathing uncomfortable and limiting oxygen intake. The infection is usually spread by close contact with infected people. 

However, vaccines can help in the prevention of pneumonia.

Symptoms

Depending on the severity, signs may involve:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fever, sweating and shaking chills
• Fatigue
• Chest pain 
• Nausea, vomiting 
• Diarrhoea
• Confusion, especially in older adults

Treatment

The bacterial infection of pneumonia may be treated with antibiotics. Hospitalization is recommended if pneumonia gets serious.

Rest and hydration can also help people recover quicker. People can reduce their risk of pneumonia by:

• Vaccination: Immunization is the most effective way to prevent pneumonia.
• Washing hands: Maintain good hygiene, and washing hands frequently, will keep germs from spreading.
• Address environmental factors: Reduce indoor air pollution by providing affordable clean indoor stoves and stopping smoking.
• A healthy lifestyle: Eat a healthy diet, rest and get regular exercise to stay well.

Sufficient nutrition is key to developing natural resistance, including exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of survival.

Fact Sheet

Frequency: Pneumonia accounts for 15% of deaths of under-five children worldwide, and 45% of deaths in children under 5 are due to household air pollution.

PGC Resolution: Providing immunization for Indians against pneumonia, improving survival and well-being of children, and managing and controlling household air pollution.