Patiala News:Timely vaccination of children and special attention to cleanliness to prevent pneumonia: Civil Surgeon

Patiala News:Timely vaccination of children and special attention to cleanliness to prevent pneumonia: Civil Surgeon

Pneumonia is a serious disease caused by lung infection.

On the occasion of World Pneumonia Day, the Health Department of Patiala organized awareness activities in various health institutions of the district , the main objective of which was to provide information to the people about the symptoms , causes , prevention and timely treatment of pneumonia.

On this occasion, Civil Surgeon Dr. Sally Jaitley said that pneumonia is a serious disease caused by lung infection , which can especially affect children below the age of five, the elderly and people with weak immunity. During this disease, the lungs become inflamed and breathing may be difficult. He said that with timely identification and proper treatment of pneumonia, serious complications of this disease can be avoided. He said that the main symptoms of pneumonia include high fever , cough , rapid or difficult breathing , chest pain , loss of appetite and feeling of weakness in the body. Symptoms like indentation of the chest while breathing , not drinking milk , lethargy or fainting may also be seen in young children. If such symptoms are seen, the child should be taken to the nearest health facility without delay and get a medical examination.

The Civil Surgeon said that to prevent pneumonia, it is very important to get children fully vaccinated in government health institutions as per the prescribed schedule. Apart from this, breastfeeding children , providing balanced and nutritious diet , maintaining cleanliness in the house and surroundings , washing hands frequently with soap and avoiding smoke in the houses also play an important role in preventing pneumonia.

He said that while coughing and sneezing, one should cover the mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue and caution should be taken while coming in contact with sick persons. If symptoms of pneumonia appear in children, immediate medical advice should be sought instead of home treatment or self-medication.