Pneumonia kills more Nigerian children under five than malaria and TB combined. Experts urge parents to prioritise vaccination, breastfeeding, hygiene, and early treatment

Child health specialists in Nigeria have warned that pneumonia remains one of the deadliest childhood diseases, claiming more lives than malaria and tuberculosis combined.

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Despite being largely preventable, awareness of protective measures among parents remains low.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, highlighted that around 850,000 Nigerian newborns and children under five die annually from preventable illnesses.

Of these, 162,000 deaths are linked to pneumonia, while 280,000 are due to prematurity.

Prof. Pate cautioned that Nigeria is not on track to meet the Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing under-five mortality to less than 25 per 1,000 live births by 2030.

According to the 2024 National Demographic Health Survey, the under-five mortality rate remains at 110 deaths per 1,000 live births, with pneumonia—often called the “forgotten killer”—receiving insufficient attention.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) describes pneumonia as a preventable infection that kills more children globally than any other disease. Caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, the disease causes fluid and pus accumulation in the lungs, making breathing difficult. In Nigeria, pneumonia accounts for 19% of all under-five deaths.

Understanding and Preventing Pneumonia

Pneumonia primarily affects children under five, especially newborns, and spreads through airborne droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces.

Paediatrician Dr. Ayodele Renner emphasised that children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems.

Experts outlined practical measures parents can take to protect their children:

Exclusive Breastfeeding: Strengthens immunity during the first six months and provides natural protection.

Complete Immunisation: Vaccines such as pneumococcal, influenza, BCG, and measles are critical.

Vaccine hesitancy and incomplete coverage remain major challenges.

Improved Home Environment: Proper ventilation and avoiding overcrowding reduce pathogen exposure.

Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing, safe food preparation, and access to clean water lower infection risks.

Adequate Nutrition: Balanced diets and community nutrition programmes strengthen immunity.

Early Recognition and Prompt Treatment: Seek medical attention for persistent cough, fever, rapid breathing, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.

Limiting Exposure to Sick Individuals: Avoid contact with ill persons and encourage good respiratory hygiene.

While pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, antivirals, and supportive care, prevention remains the most effective strategy.

“The best-case scenario is that children never contract the disease in the first place,” Dr. Renner said.

Experts called on policymakers, civil society groups, and healthcare providers to prioritise child health through expanded vaccination coverage, health education, nutrition support, and improved housing and environmental standards.

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With coordinated efforts from parents, communities, and government, specialists say the deadly toll of pneumonia in Nigerian children can be significantly reduced.