World Pneumonia Day
November 12, 2016
World Pneumonia Day is annually held on November 12 to raise awareness of pneumonia, promote prevention and treatment, and generate action to fight the illness.
Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of deaths in children under five years old despite being easily preventable and treatable.
“In 2013 alone, more than 900,000 children died from this preventable and treatable illness, accounting for 15% of under-five child mortality worldwide, 2% of which are new-borns” – UNICEF
What Is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection in one or both lung. It can be caused by fungi, bacteria, or viruses. Pneumonia causes inflammation in your lung’s air sacs and filled with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe.
Symptoms of pneumonia can range from mild to life threatening.
What Are the Symptoms of Pneumonia?
- chest pain
- shaking chills
- fever
- dry cough
- wheezing
- muscle aches
- nausea
- vomiting
- rapid breathing
- rapid heartbeat
- difficulty breathing
Some symptoms may indicate a medical emergency. You should seek immediate medical attention if you have any of these symptoms:
- skin with bluish tone (from lack of oxygen)
- blood in sputum (coughed-up mucus)
- labored breathing
- high fever (102.5°F or higher)
- confusion
- rapid heartbeat
How Is Pneumonia Treated?
General Treatment
The typical treatment plan for pneumonia includes taking all prescribed medications and participating in follow-up care. A chest X-ray may be ordered to make sure your pneumonia has been successfully treated.
In many cases, pneumonia can be treated at home. Patients who are affected severely has to be hospitalized.
Can Pneumonia Be Prevented?
There are several vaccines that can be helpful in preventing Pneumonia. In addition to vaccinations, it is advisable to wash hands, refrain from smoking, eat healthy foods, exercise, and stay away from others with pneumonia.
Source: www.who.int / www.stoppneumonia.org/ www.healthline.com
Image Credit: www.un.org
