Breaking up with Pneumonia for a Healthier You
World Pneumonia Day urges vigilance as pneumonia claims 14% of child deaths globally. With 127k new cases in Mexico in 2021, vaccination, respiratory care, and early treatment are crucial. Let's unite to protect lives on November 12.
Pneumonia, a seemingly silent adversary, claims the lives of hundreds of thousands of children worldwide each year. The World Health Organization's stark revelation that pneumonia is the leading cause of infant mortality underscores the urgency of addressing this pervasive health issue. In Mexico alone, the National Institute of Public Health reports a significant rise in pneumonia cases, affecting not only children but also adults, with 2021 witnessing over 127,000 new diagnoses. As we observe World Pneumonia Day on November 12, it becomes crucial to shed light on preventive measures, timely treatment, and the collective responsibility we bear in the face of this global health challenge.
According to Jorge Salas Hernández, an esteemed academic at the Faculty of Medicine of the UNAM, pneumonia is an acute infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. While bacterial infections, particularly those by Streptococcus pneumoniae, are prevalent, even viruses like SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, can lead to severe respiratory complications resembling pneumonia. The symptoms range from respiratory distress and coughing to more severe manifestations like accelerated heart rate and fever.
