- Parents in the North Rift have been urged to remain vigilant following increased pneumonia cases among children.
- Dr Naomi Kirui says early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preventing serious complications.
- Parents have also been advised to prioritise vaccination, proper nutrition and timely medical attention.
A red flag has been issued over an increase in cases of pneumonia among children in the North Rift. This comes as parents in the region have been urged to take measures to protect their children from the disease.
Dr Naomi Kirui of Kapsabet Referral Hospital said pneumonia is a serious illness that requires early diagnosis and treatment.
Speaking to the media, Dr Kirui urged parents to be vigilant for signs of the disease and ensure that children receive a balanced diet to strengthen their immunity.
“Parents should ensure that children receive proper nutrition and are adequately breastfed to strengthen their immunity against diseases,” said Dr Kirui.
She also stressed the importance of children receiving recommended vaccinations and participating in awareness programmes on the prevention and control of respiratory diseases.
Dr Kirui said pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, and that treatment depends on the cause of the infection.
“Pneumonia is treatable when detected early. The important thing is for parents not to ignore the symptoms but to take their children to hospital early,” she said.
Pneumonia causes the tiny air sacs in the lungs to become inflamed and fill with fluid or pus, a condition that can lead to breathing difficulties.
Symptoms may include coughing, fever, difficulty or rapid breathing and weakness, while children with severe symptoms may require urgent medical attention.
Parents urged to remain vigilant
According to Dr Kirui, some cases of pneumonia are caused by bacteria and can be treated with antibiotics, while viral pneumonia requires treatment depending on the patient’s condition. Severe cases may require hospitalisation, oxygen therapy or breathing support.
READ ALSO: Stakeholders raise alarm over rising teenage pregnancies among schoolgirls in Nandi
Dr Kirui urged parents to remain vigilant and ensure that children showing worrying symptoms are taken to health facilities for early diagnosis, noting the disease is treatable.
By Kimutai Langat
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
