Pneumonia

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that makes it difficult to breathe. It is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that enter the lungs and fill the air sacs (alveoli) with fluid or pus. This leads to coughing, fever, difficulty in breathing, and chest pain.

In Africa, pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death among children under five years old. According to the world health organization (WHO), pneumonia kills nearly 800,000 children worldwide every year, with half of these deaths occurring in Africa. Despite this, pneumonia is often misunderstood or ignored until it becomes severe.

Common misconceptions about pneumonia?

Many Africans believe that pneumonia is caused by cold weather or air conditioning. This is not true. While exposure to cold air may worsen symptoms, pneumonia itself is caused by germs (bacteria, viruses, or fungi) that infect the lungs.

Another myth is that pneumonia cannot be prevented. In reality, vaccines, good hygiene, and a strong immune system can help protect against pneumonia.

How common is pneumonia in Africa?

Pneumonia affects people of all ages but is especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems. In Sub-Saharan Africa:

  • Pneumonia accounts for about 15% of all deaths in children under five.
  • Poor access to healthcare and malnutrition increase the risk of severe pneumonia.
  • Rural communities with limited access to vaccines and medical care face the highest number of cases.

Types of pneumonia?

Pneumonia can be classified based on how it is acquired:

  • Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP): The most common type, contracted outside hospitals.
  • Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP): Develops in patients admitted to hospitals, often resistant to antibiotics.
  • Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP): Occurs in people using ventilators to help them breathe.
  • Aspiration pneumonia: Happens when food, drink, or saliva enters the lungs instead of the stomach, common in stroke patients or people with swallowing problems.

Symptoms of pneumonia?

Pneumonia symptoms can range from mild to severe. Watch out for:

  • Long lasting cough that produces phlegm (mucus)
  • Fever, sweating, and chills
  • Shortness of breath even while resting
  • Chest pain when breathing or coughing
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
  • Headaches

For infants and young children, symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Pale lips or fingers due to lack of oxygen
  • Refusal to eat or drink
  • Unusual sleepiness or irritability

For elderly people, pneumonia can be harder to detect, as they may not show typical symptoms. Instead, they may experience:

  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Causes of pneumonia?

Pneumonia happens when germs enter the lungs and trigger an infection. The most common causes in Africa include:

  • Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae (main cause of severe pneumonia), Haemophilus influenzae
  • Viruses: Common cold viruses, measles, influenza, and coronaviruses
  • Fungi: Found in the environment and can affect people with weak immune systems (e.g., HIV patients)

Who is most at risk?

Certain groups are more likely to get pneumonia, including:

  • Children under 5 years old
  • Elderly people (above 65 years)
  • Pregnant women
  • People with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, sickle cell disease, or heart problems
  • People living with HIV/AIDS
  • Smokers and heavy alcohol drinkers
  • People exposed to pollution and toxic fumes (e.g., from firewood smoke)
  • Those living in crowded environments (e.g., slums, refugee camps, or prisons)

How can pneumonia be prevented?

Pneumonia is preventable. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family:

  • Get vaccinated: The pneumococcal vaccine helps prevent the most common type of bacterial pneumonia.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
  • Eat a healthy diet: Nutritious foods strengthen the immune system.
  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: These weaken the lungs and immune system.
  • Breastfeed infants for at least 6 months: Breast milk helps babies build strong immunity.
  • Treat respiratory infections early: Seek medical help if you or your child have symptoms of a chest infection.

How is pneumonia treated?

The treatment of pneumonia depends on its cause:

  • Bacterial pneumonia: Treated with antibiotics. It is important to complete the full course of medication even if you feel better.
  • Viral pneumonia: Usually improves with rest, fluids, and fever-reducing medications.
  • Severe cases: May require hospitalization, oxygen therapy, or IV medication.

When to see a doctor?

Seek medical attention immediately if you or a loved one experience:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Long lasting fever (above 38°C/100.4°F)
  • Chest pain that worsens
  • Confusion or fainting
  • Pale or purplish lips or nails (sign of low oxygen levels)