Pneumonia Still Threatens Nigerian Children: Warning Signs and Ways to Protect Them
World Pneumonia Day is observed on November 12 under the theme “A New Era of Pneumonia Control.” The disease claimed an estimated 2.5 million lives worldwide in 2023, including 610,000 children under five. Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health has cited an estimate of 162,000 childhood pneumonia deaths in the country each year. Children face greater risks when they are exposed to cooking smoke, poor nutrition, overcrowded living conditions or incomplete vaccinations. Delays in reaching healthcare and inappropriate antibiotic use can also make treatment harder. Warning signs in children include difficulty or unusually fast breathing, chest indrawing, inability to drink or breastfeed, unusual drowsiness and convulsions. A child who is struggling to breathe needs urgent medical attention. Prevention includes routine immunisations, good nutrition, reducing exposure to smoke and seeking care promptly. Antibiotics should only be used when appropriate, as advised by a health professional. A new era of pneumonia control must bring vaccines, trained health workers, diagnostics, medicines and reliable oxygen within reach of communities. Public health guidance from health authorities and organisations such as WHO and UNICEF stresses that early care can help prevent severe illness and deaths.
Use The App To Win ₦1m
Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.