World health organization

10 facts on child health

Young boy looking out the window of a hut, Laos
WHO/Chris Black

Pneumonia is the largest single cause of death in children under five years of age.

In 2011, it killed an estimated 1.2 million children under the age of five years, accounting for 18% of all deaths of children under five years old worldwide. Addressing the major risk factors for the illness through immunization, exclusive breastfeeding, and adequate nutrition is essential for prevention. Antibiotics and oxygen are vital treatment tools.

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