Calls for Malaysia to boost protection against pneumonia as fatalities rise

Experts raise need for vaccination push to fight nation's leading cause of death in 2023

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Pneumonia surpassed heart disease to become Malaysia's leading cause of death in 2023, prompting urgent calls for enhanced respiratory health measures and vaccination efforts.

According to the Statistics Department, the number of pneumonia-related deaths has gradually increased from 9,250 in 2014 to 18,181 in 2023.

Pneumonia became the principal cause of death for the first time in two decades, during which time heart disease was the No. 1 killer, except in 2021 when Covid-19 was the leading cause of death.

Pneumonia is contracted through bacterial, viral or fungal infections. If left untreated, it can lead to a serious lung infection that can be fatal.

Bacterial and viral pneumonia are contagious and usually spread through coughing, sneezing or even breathing, while pneumonia caused by fungi is not contagious.

It can affect anyone at any age, although those above 65 and children with compromised immune systems are more susceptible.

Symptoms of pneumonia include productive cough, also known as a chesty cough; high fever; loss of appetite; a confused mental state; low energy; extreme tiredness; and rapid breathing or wheezing.

Those showing symptoms such as persistent coughing for more than three weeks or coughing up blood; pale, blue or blotchy skin, lips or tongue; and difficulty in breathing, plus suddenly feeling confused or delirious should seek urgent medical attention.

Patients suffering from bacterial pneumonia are treated with antibiotics, while most viral infections do not have specific treatments.

Hospitalisation is required if the condition is serious.

Several pneumococcal vaccines are currently available to help prevent or protect against pneumonia. They are recommended for babies, those above 65 years old and those at high risk of pneumococcal infection.

The flu vaccine is also recommended during pregnancy and for those above 65 with a high risk of pneumococcal infections.