Pneumonia, one of the main health problems in childhood

In the province of Holguin, pneumonia has historically been one of the leading causes of hospital admissions among children who visit the emergency room.

In recent years, there has been an increase in this type of illness. Also which has prompted the Octavio de la Concepción de la Pedraja Pediatric Hospital to undertake a study that will lead to a management strategy to better address these infections.

Strategies such as vaccination with Pneumovirus in infants at two, four, and eleven months of age should lead to a decrease in this condition in the early stages of life. For some time now, the pediatric institution has also been using promising treatments. Such as activated charcoal as an adjunct to antibiotic therapy, with promising results.

According to Dr. María Paneque Mendoza, a pediatrician currently working in the People’s Republic of Angola. “More than four million children under five years old die annually from acute respiratory infections worldwide. Representing approximately 30 percent of all pediatric deaths each year. This illness is one of the leading causes of medical care globally.”

Regarding timely recommendations for families with young children, the specialist emphasizes that prevention is the first line of defense. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly once the first symptoms appear.

Among the most evident manifestations of this illness are rapid or wheezing breathing, high and persistent fever, retraction of the ribs when breathing, loss of appetite and lethargy, and bluish discoloration of the lips and nails. The most frequent causes include viral infections. Moreover among bacterial infections, pneumococcus is the primary pathogen.

As part of the National Vaccination Program, immunogens are included that protect young children against the main agents that cause pneumonia. Therefore, to save time and avoid complications. It is advisable not to stay home if young children show any warning signs.

Pneumonia is a serious global health problem, especially in childhood. So much so that it is one of the leading causes of death in children. As they are one of the most vulnerable populations. Hence the celebration of World Pneumonia Day every November 12th, to protect the future of our youngest citizens.

Maylín Betancourt Verdecia
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