The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, highlighted that approximately 850,000 Nigerian newborns and children under five die annually from preventable illnesses. Among these, 280,000 deaths are linked to prematurity, while pneumonia accounts for an alarming 162,000 under-five fatalities each year.
Pate cautioned that Nigeria is not on track to meet the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 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, under-five mortality 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, pneumonia causes fluid and pus to accumulate in the lungs, making breathing difficult. In Nigeria, UNICEF notes, pneumonia is responsible for 19% of all under-five deaths, equating to one child dying every three minutes in 2019.
Understanding the Disease and Its Spread
Pneumonia develops when pathogens overwhelm a child’s still-developing immune system, particularly in children under five, and especially in newborns during the first four months of life. Paediatrician Dr. Ayodele Renner explained that the infection spreads primarily through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces.
“Children are particularly vulnerable because their immunity is still developing. Understanding how the disease spreads is the first step toward prevention,” Renner said.
Prevention Starts at Home
Experts highlighted several practical measures parents can take to reduce their children’s risk:
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Exclusive Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months strengthens immunity and provides natural protection against infections. Early introduction of water, pap, or other foods can compromise a child’s immune system, Renner noted.
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Complete Immunisation: Vaccines remain critical in defending against pneumonia. Key vaccines include pneumococcal, influenza, BCG for tuberculosis, and measles vaccines. Dr. Ubuane stressed that incomplete vaccination is a major contributor to pneumonia deaths, while vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation further lowers coverage.
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Improved Home Environment: Proper ventilation and avoiding overcrowding, especially in sleeping areas, can reduce exposure to airborne pathogens.
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Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing with soap and clean water, safe food preparation, and access to potable water are essential in lowering infection risk.
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Adequate Nutrition: Malnourished children are more susceptible to infections. Balanced meals and access to community nutrition programmes can strengthen immunity, experts said.
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Early Recognition and Prompt Treatment: Parents must seek immediate medical attention for symptoms such as persistent cough, high fever, rapid breathing, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. Delayed hospital visits contribute significantly to pneumonia fatalities.
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Limiting Exposure to Sick Individuals: Children should avoid contact with people who are ill, while family members should practice good respiratory hygiene.
Why Prevention Matters
While pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, antivirals, and supportive care, paediatricians emphasised that prevention remains the most effective approach. “The best-case scenario is that children never contract the disease in the first place,” Renner said.
Experts called on policymakers, civil society groups, and healthcare providers to prioritise child health by ensuring easier access to healthcare, funding public health programmes, expanding vaccination coverage, integrating health education into school curricula, supporting vulnerable families with nutrition programmes, and improving housing and environmental standards.
With concerted efforts from parents, communities, and governments, experts say the deadly toll of pneumonia in Nigerian children can be significantly reduced.