Why 12 November Matters

Each year on 12 November we observe World Pneumonia Day, a global call-to-action to raise awareness about pneumonia - a disease that is preventable, treatable, yet continues to exact a heavy toll.

Although pneumonia can affect anyone, its burden is especially critical among children under five, and among older people or those with weakened immunity. For us at Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital (NGMH), it is an opportunity to engage patients, families and communities with the message: Every breath counts.

Pneumonia: The Silent Threat

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection of the lung - specifically the air-sacs (alveoli) may fill with fluid or pus, interrupting oxygen exchange and causing symptoms like cough, fever, difficulty breathing and chest pain.

Who is at risk?

• Children under 5 years of age remain the highest risk group globally.
• Older adults (especially above 65), and those with chronic lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems.
• People living in settings with high air pollution, indoor smoke (from cooking/heating fuels), malnutrition or poor access to health services.

Why is it still so deadly?

Despite advances in care, pneumonia remains one of the leading infectious killers of children and a major cause of hospitalisation in adults. Many deaths occur due to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment (oxygen therapy/antibiotics), poor nutrition, and environmental exposures.

The Theme for 2025: Child Survival

Under the 2025 banner, the focus is firmly on child survival. The global health community urges that without reducing pneumonia deaths, especially among young children, many countries will struggle to meet the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal for child survival.

Key pillars of the campaign:

• Vaccination (for example pneumococcal vaccines) to protect children from bacterial pneumonia.
• Improved nutrition and addressing under-nutrition because malnourished children are far more vulnerable.
• Access to oxygen therapy, antibiotics, diagnostics and care in low-resource settings.
• Clean air, reduction of indoor air pollution and smoking cessation to lower risk.

What Can We Do At Home?

• Recognise early warning signs: fast or difficult breathing, chest indrawing, inability to feed or drink, high fever in a young child.
• Ensure children are up-to-date with recommended vaccinations, including pneumococcal, measles and influenza vaccines.
• Promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and good nutrition thereafter - key for immunity and resilience.
• Ensure home-environment improvements: avoid indoor smoke, encourage clean cooking fuels if available, provide good ventilation.
• Seek prompt medical attention if symptoms appear - early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve outcomes.

Why It Matters for India and Siliguri

In India - and particularly in regions like Siliguri, where changing weather patterns, high humidity, and seasonal air pollution often aggravate respiratory problems - pneumonia continues to be a serious public-health concern. The mix of urban congestion, fluctuating temperatures, and rising respiratory infections during winter months increases the vulnerability of children and older adults.

As we observe World Pneumonia Day 2025, it’s crucial for the Siliguri community to focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and timely treatment. Simple steps such as maintaining clean indoor air, ensuring proper ventilation, getting vaccinated, and seeking medical help at the first signs of illness can save lives.

At Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital (NGMH), Siliguri, we urge families and caregivers to stay informed and proactive - because early action today means healthier breaths tomorrow.

Conclusion

As we mark World Pneumonia Day 2025, the message is clear: child survival demands pneumonia control. At Neotia Getwel Multispecialty Hospital, we recognise the urgency and the opportunity. Pneumonia is preventable and treatable - but only if we act decisively. Vaccination, nutrition, clean air, early detection and timely treatment are the cornerstones. Let us commit - for our children, for our elders, for our community - to make every breath safer, and every life stronger.

Disclaimer

This blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you or your child experience symptoms such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, high fever or chest pain, please consult a qualified healthcare provider promptly.