Pneumonia is a form of acute respiratory infection that affects the lungs. The lungs comprise tiny sacs called alveoli, which fill with air when a healthy person breathes. When an individual has pneumonia, the alveoli are filled with pus and fluid, making breathing painful and limiting oxygen intake. The condition may be mild or fatal. Some populations have been classified as more at risk of pneumonia, including infants and young children, people older than age 65, and people with health problems or weakened immune systems.

Here are five quick facts about Pneumonia in Africa:

1. High Mortality Rate:
Pneumonia remains a significant public health concern in Africa, where it is one of the leading causes of child mortality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pneumonia is responsible for a large portion of under-five child deaths in the region, with an estimated 194,000 pneumonia-related deaths in 2020.2.

2. Vaccine Coverage:
Access to life-saving vaccines for pneumonia in many African countries remains a challenge. Although vaccines like the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine(PCV) effectively prevent certain types of pneumonia, disparities in vaccination coverage exist across the continent, with some countries lagging in vaccine distribution and administration.

3. Malnutrition:
Malnutrition is a significant risk factor for pneumonia in Africa. Many children in the region suffer from chronic malnutrition, which weakens their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to respiratory infections, including pneumonia. Addressing malnutrition is crucial for pneumonia prevention and management.

4. Indoor Air Pollution:
The use of solid fuels for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes is every day in many African households. This practice exposes individuals to indoor air pollution, which increases the risk of pneumonia. Raising awareness about and facilitating access to clean cooking technologies and improved ventilation can help reduce this risk.

5. Healthcare Access:
Limited access to quality healthcare facilities, particularly in rural and underserved areas, can hinder timely diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia. Improving healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare workers, and ensuring the availability of essential medications and oxygen therapy are crucial steps in reducing pneumonia-related mortality in Africa. 

Let us unite in the fight against pneumonia in Africa and globally. By advocating for clean air, implementing prevention strategies, and increasing awareness, we can reduce the burden of pneumonia and save countless lives. Together, we can create a healthier future for all, where every breath is taken without the fear of this.