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.
With climate change continuing to increase the burden of respiratory conditions and the likelihood of another pandemic of respiratory infection high, there is an important risk of additional infections and deaths. Children living in areas with low vaccination rates and rising malnutrition and in homes that use polluting fuels for cooking and heating are particularly vulnerable. Older adults exposed to outdoor air pollution and smoking are also at risk.
This year at our ICID 2024 Congress in Cape Town, South Africa, a specific session on Respiratory Infections will include the following topics: advances in the prevention of RSV in infants, Antiviral Therapeutics Discovery for Enterovirus D68, and Respiratory Tract Infections at Mass Gatherings.