Pneumonia remains one of the world's leading infectious killers. It still claims more lives of children under five than any other infectious disease, and also poses a serious threat to older people and those with chronic health conditions, particularly in low-and middle-income countries.
Protecting children and communities from pneumonia means strengthening health systems - so that preventive measures reach everyone, and every person with symptoms can get rapid diagnosis and the right treatment, including antibiotics and medical oxygen when needed.
We know what works.
WHO has many resources for the public, healthcare workers and member states.
Urgent action will ensure every breath matters:
Scale up prevention: Ensure all children have access to essential vaccines such as those for Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), pneumococcus, measles, and pertussis. Promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, adequate nutrition, and environments free from tobacco smoke and indoor air pollution.
Strengthen primary health care: Equip health workers with the tools and training to recognize and manage pneumonia early.
Promote equity and accountability: Monitor progress, close gaps in access to vaccines, oxygen, and care, and integrate pneumonia control into broader child-health, ageing, and environmental health programmes.
Increase access to oxygen: Ensure that every health facility - especially in low-resource settings - has reliable access to medical oxygen, pulse oximetry, and the supplies and training needed to use them safely.
