World Pneumonia Day
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation of the alveoli in one or both lungs. The alveoli may be filled with fluid or pus (purulent material), causing a cough with phlegm or pus, fever or chills, and difficulty breathing. A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, can cause pneumonia.
Air pollution is the leading risk factor for pneumonia deaths in all age groups. Almost a third of pneumonia deaths were attributed to air pollution, resulting in around 749,200 deaths in 2019. Home air pollution contributed to 423,000 deaths, while outdoor air pollution contributed to 326,000.