Adverse weather conditions and an approaching winter make many of us susceptible to the common cold and flu. Those in vulnerable age groups, especially children under two and the elderly are prone to serious respiratory illnesses like Pneumonia.
On World Pneumonia Day, we share vital facts about this illness and how a comprehensive health insurance plan can help you walk through the recovery period without hassle.
Importance of World Pneumonia Day
Pneumonia is a preventable and treatable infectious disease. However, regardless of the medical treatment available, the ailment remains one of the most severe diseases in the world.
World Pneumonia Day plays a crucial role in encouraging various public and private organisations to contribute and organise campaigns. The campaigns running on World Pneumonia Day impart preventive measures, provide facilities, and ensure that no one is deprived of the Pneumonia vaccine.
World Pneumonia Day Theme
This year's World Pneumonia Day theme is “Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in Its Track”. This theme highlights the importance of every breath and emphasises the urgency of stopping pneumonia through early detection, treatment, and prevention.
What Causes Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a contagious lung infection; it is generally caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
- Bacteria: Infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria lead to a severe condition of Pneumonia.
- Viruses: Various viruses can also cause Pneumonia in adults and children. Influenza (Thr flu) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are the most common examples.
- Fungi: Common fungal pathogens like Histoplasma, Coccidiodes, and Cryptococcus can cause Pneumonia in people with weak immunity.
Symptoms of Pneumonia
The symptoms of Pneumonia can vary in children and adults. Both groups may experience symptoms that range from mild to severe.
Pneumonia in Adults
- Cough (which may produce phlegm)
- Fever and chills
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain (especially when breathing deeply or coughing)
- Fatigue
- Confusion (especially in older adults)
Pneumonia in Children
- Cough
- Fever
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Vomiting
Treatment of Pneumonia
Pneumonia patients will be prescribed oral medications, viz. antibiotics, depending on the cause, to fight both the infection and the symptoms it has caused. The doctor would also recommend blood tests, chest X-rays, etc., to identify the infection. When the symptoms worsen, immediate hospitalisation is required.
Meanwhile, specific measures must be taken at home, including sufficient rest and proper diet and fluid intake.
Raising Awareness on World Pneumonia Day
As per UNICEF, Pneumonia is the leading cause of infectious death in children under 5. Many activities and campaigns are held on World Pneumonia Day to raise awareness and prevent the spread of this severe disease:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Read and explore Pneumonia, its effects, and treatment options. Discuss and share the information with friends and family.
- Attend Workshops or Events: Look for local workshops and events focused on Pneumonia treatment, prevention and awareness and participate in them to get educated and raise awareness amongst peers.
- Social Media Campaigns: You can also use various social media platforms to spread awareness and share relevant stories about symptoms, causes, treatment and safety measures to prevent Pneumonia.
The Role of Your Health Insurance Policy
Having a mediclaim policy for family proves to be highly beneficial in cases where a person falls sick and requires emergency hospitalisation. Such policies give quick cashless coverage for the patient's medical treatment so that the family can focus on the treatment rather than on securing finances to pay for the hospital expenses.
Among the various types of health insurance in India, a senior citizen's health plan is a must for any family with elderly patients with chronic conditions like asthma. The risk of contracting Pneumonia increases further if one is exposed to allergens or has a weak immune system due to some medication, say for cancer. A pneumonia vaccine and preventive healthcare measures are vital in curbing the possibility of this disease.
Buying a comprehensive health insurance plan will provide hospitalisation coverage, including day-care procedures. The treatment process might start before the actual hospitalisation and continue even after getting discharged from the hospital. This is why many health plans offer the advantage of covering pre and post-hospitalisation medical expenses. In some plans, you will also get the option of domiciliary hospitalisation cover, wherein the patient may undertake treatment at home if prescribed by an expert.
>> Also Read: Signs and Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia
Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.
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