Investing in Child Health: Fight Against Pneumonia

Apr 18, 2019

Premature childhood death due to pneumonia is no doubt a global problem. According to a recent study released by UNICEF, pneumonia remains the leading infectious cause of death among children under five years old. In fact, the condition kills nearly 2,500 children each day. With numbers such as these, it’s little wonder that parents are often scrambling to locate emergency care near me when their little one exhibits the early sign of the condition.

Most Common Symptoms of Pneumonia

Following are the most common symptoms of pneumonia in patients of all ages:

  • Chest pain when breathing or coughing
  • Coughing with the production of phlegm
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Fever and sweating
  • Shaking and chills
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fever of 102 F or higher (Note: if fever is persistent, you should seek urgent care)

Also, for individuals over the age of 65, the following two symptoms are significant:

  • Confusion or changes in mental awareness
  • Lower than normal body temperature (this also applies to anyone with a weakened immune system)

What You Can Do Today to Fight Against Pneumonia at Home

If you or a family member are exhibiting any one or more of the above symptoms, Express ER can diagnose and treat you condition in our state-of-the-art medical facility. However, if you want to prevent the condition, the number one thing you can do is get a vaccination. Although the guidelines for pneumonia vaccinations have changed over recent years, your doctor – or the staff at any urgent care facility, such as Express ER – can provide guidelines.

When it comes to vaccinating your children, a conversation with your doctor is especially important. Why? There are different vaccines available for children in different age groups because of different risk factors. This is also a good time to discuss flu vaccinations for your children and yourself.

One final note of importance to help fight against pneumonia at home, work, or school: the practice of good hygiene. This simple practice can not be over-stated in its importance to protect yourself and your family from respiratory infections like pneumonia.