Paediatric Pneumonia Cases On Rise In Bengaluru: Do's And Don'ts Parents Must Follow (Image Credits: iStock)
If your child has been coughing persistently or struggling with a fever that just won’t go away, you’re not alone. Bengaluru doctors are seeing a worrying rise in pneumonia cases among children, and what’s even more alarming? Even vaccinated kids are falling sick. Experts say antibiotic resistance is making standard treatments less effective, leaving many young patients struggling to recover.
Doctors report nearly 10 cases of pediatric pneumonia every day, with Mycoplasma pneumoniae—a bacterial infection affecting the upper respiratory tract—emerging as a major culprit. The biggest reason behind this surge? The misuse of antibiotics. Many parents, often unknowingly, self-medicate their children, which is only making the bacteria more resistant to treatment.
So, what are the warning signs? And how can parents protect their children from this growing health threat?
Why Are Pneumonia Cases Increasing?
Experts believe that one of the key reasons behind this surge is the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. The antibiotics that were once effective in treating pneumonia are becoming less reliable, making recovery difficult for many young patients. According to doctors, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which primarily causes upper respiratory tract infections, is now a major culprit.
Antibiotic resistance is a serious issue. The basic drugs doctors used to rely on to treat pneumonia are no longer working as effectively. Doctors are seeing more cases where children take longer to recover, and in some instances, they require stronger medications.
The Role of Self-Medication and Over-the-Counter Antibiotics
Doctors attribute much of this resistance to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. Many parents, in an attempt to quickly relieve their child’s symptoms, resort to self-medication. Over-the-counter availability of antibiotics without proper medical supervision has led to incorrect dosages and incomplete treatment cycles, which in turn fuel resistance.
"Many parents give their children antibiotics without consulting a doctor. While this may provide temporary relief, it contributes to long-term resistance, making standard treatments ineffective when a child genuinely needs them," said another city-based doctor.
Common Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children
Recognising pneumonia early is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some key symptoms parents should watch for:
Persistent cough with mucus
Dos and Don’ts to Prevent Pneumonia
Dos:
Ensure vaccination: Make sure your child receives all recommended vaccines, including the pneumococcal and flu vaccines, which help prevent certain types of pneumonia.
Encourage good hygiene: Teach children to wash their hands frequently to prevent the spread of infections.
Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals strengthens the immune system.
Keep indoor air clean: Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke, pollutants, and dust, which can weaken lung health.
Visit a doctor for proper diagnosis: If your child has persistent symptoms, consult a doctor instead of self-medicating.
Don’ts:
Avoid unnecessary antibiotics: Do not give antibiotics unless prescribed by a doctor.
Do not ignore symptoms: Delayed treatment can lead to complications like respiratory failure.
Limit exposure to sick individuals: Keep children away from people showing symptoms of respiratory infections.
Avoid overcrowded places during outbreaks: Schools and daycare centres can be hotspots for infections.
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.
