Vaccines, clean air and good nutrition can prevent most cases, doctors say.
World Pneumonia Day is observed on November 12 to raise awareness about pneumonia, the single largest infectious cause of death among children under five worldwide. The day was first marked in 2009.
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs, which may fill with fluid. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.
Symptoms include cough, fever, rapid or difficult breathing and chest pain. In young children, fast breathing and chest indrawing are danger signs that need urgent medical care.
Doctors say vaccines against pneumococcus, Hib and measles, exclusive breastfeeding, good nutrition and reducing exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution can prevent many cases. The risk rises in winter, when pollution levels in north India peak.
