Pneumonia
News –
- Pneumonia remains the single largest identified cause of infant mortality in Karnataka
Pneumonia
- It is an acute respiratory infection causing inflammation in lung air sacs (alveoli).
- Mechanism: Alveoli fill with fluid/pus, restricting oxygen intake.
- Transmission: Airborne droplets, surface contact, or blood during childbirth.
- Vulnerable groups: Children under 5 and adults over 65.
Causative Agents
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae (most common), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).
- Viruses: RSV, Influenza, Coronaviruses.
- Fungi: Pneumocystis jirovecii (targets HIV/immunocompromised patients).
- Atypical: Mycoplasma pneumoniae (causes mild “walking pneumonia”).
India’s Schemes & Initiatives
- PCV Vaccine: Rolled out under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). Protects against pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.
- SAANS Campaign: Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully. Drives early identification in under-5 children.
- Integrated Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Pneumonia and Diarrhea – Integrated strategy targeting India’s two highest under-5 child killers: pneumonia and diarrhea.
Global Frameworks
- Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Pneumonia and Diarrhoea (GAPPD) : WHO/UNICEF plan aiming for fewer than 3 child pneumonia deaths per 1,000 live births.
- World Pneumonia Day: Observed every year on November 12.
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