Context Union Health Minister launched a nationwide expansion of Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) as a part of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’.
It was for the first time in the country that PCV would be available for universal use.
Pneumonia was a leading cause of death among children under five, globally and in India.
About Pneumonia
A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause pneumonia.
Pneumonia caused by pneumococcus is the most common cause of severe pneumonia in children.
Around 16% of deaths in children occur due to pneumonia in India.
The nationwide roll-out of PCV will reduce child mortality by around 60%
symptoms of pneumonia: Chest pain when you breathe or cough, changes in mental awareness, Cough, which may produce phlegm, Fatigue, Fever, chills, etc.
Treatments include antibiotics, antivirals and anti fungal medications.
Healthy diet, hygiene, vaccinations are some of the ways to prevent pneumonia.
