Dr. Ernell Tumimbang, Negros Occidental provincial health officer, yesterday warned the public not to take any coughing, sneezing, fever with cough or shortness of breath for granted, as they could trigger pneumonia.

Early prevention and treatment will prevent hospitalization, he said.

The change in climate has led to a rise of pneumonia cases in the province, he said.

The Department of Health records in 2007 showed pneumonia as the second leading cause of deaths in the country, he said.

“We are on alert because pneumonia cases are increasing, among children and adults,” Tumimbang said.

People with infectious pneumonia often have a productive cough, fever accompanied by shaking chills, shortness of breath, sharp or stabbing chest pain during deep breaths, confusion, and an increased respiratory rate.

In the elderly, confusion may be the most prominent symptom.

The typical symptoms in children under five are fever, cough, and fast or difficult breathing.*CPG

back to top