WORLD PNEUMONIA DAY
World Pneumonia Day – November 12
World Pneumonia Day is commemorated on November 12. Pneumonia is a preventable and treatable disease but is the leading cause of death in young children, especially in low- and middle-income countries. It can be life-threatening particularly in children and the elderly. Older adults and those with weakened immune systems or certain chronic health conditions are especially at risk for this infectious disease; and despite recent global advances urgent efforts are still needed to improve access to its effective prevention and treatment.
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World Pneumonia Day
World Pneumonia Day has been observed every year on November 12 since 2009. The Day is meant to spread awareness and educate people, governments, and other stakeholders to take action to combat pneumonia on all fronts. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It can be life-threatening, particularly in children and the elderly. The theme of the World Pneumonia Day 2023 highlights the significance of every breath and underscores the importance and urgency of stopping pneumonia through early detection, treatment, and prevention. Early detection and treatment are key to the prevention of complications and reduction of morbidity. Pneumonia can be prevented by vaccination, adequate nutrition, and particularly in children addressing environmental factors like indoor air pollution, proper ventilation, and parental smoking.
Spreading Awareness for the Future
World Pneumonia Day is commemorated on November 12, and, like every year, it is dedicated to spreading awareness among people to understand the needs and current situation in the fight against this disease. Pneumonia is the leading cause of death in young children, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), as well as a major cause of death among the elderly. Among the most common causes are: Streptococcus Pneumoniae, Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib) and the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It can be prevented by immunization, adequate nutrition, and addressing environmental factors. Pneumonia caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, but according to the WHO, only one-third of children with pneumonia receive the antibiotics they need.