World Pneumonia Day 2025, WHO Shares Effective Steps For Handling

JAKARTA - Every November 12 is celebrated by World Pneumonia Day 2025. This commemoration is a moment of global invitation to strengthen the action against pneumonia which is still one of the causes of the most infectious deaths in the world.

This year's commemoration carries the theme "Every Valuable Breath: Stop Pneumonia From The Beginning,". This theme emphasizes the prevention of pneumonia through vaccination, nutrition improvement, and clean air initiatives, especially in areas with limited resources.

This follows a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) which revealed that pneumonia claimed the lives of children under five more than other infectious diseases.

These conditions pose a serious threat to the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Protecting children and society from pneumonia means strengthening the health system. This is so that precautions can reach everyone, and anyone with symptoms can get a quick diagnosis and proper treatment, including antibiotics and medical oxygen if needed.

Especially for children who are very vulnerable to pneumonia. Quoting from the official WHO website, on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, here are some actions that must be taken for better treatment and prevention.

1. Improve prevention

Increase the prevention of pneumonia cases in children by ensuring that all children have access to important vaccines such as vaccines for type b (Hib) Haemophilus influenzae, pneumokokus, Measles, and pertusis.

Each country is also recommended to further promote exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months, adequate nutrition, and an environment free from cigarette smoke and indoor air pollution.

2. Strengthen primary health services

The step to strengthen primary health services is to equip health workers with devices and training, to recognize and deal with pneumonia from an early age.

3. Promote equality and accountability

This is done by monitoring progress, overcoming gaps in access to vaccines, oxygen, and treatments, as well as integrating pneumonia control into a wider program of children's health, the elderly, and environmental health.

4. Increase access to oxygen

Ensure that every health facility, especially in areas with limited resources, has reliable access to medical oxygen, pulse oxymmetry, and the necessary equipment and training to use it safely.