Philippine medical experts advise receiving vaccinations to reduce contracting pneumonia

In the Philippines, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) for 2022 revealed that pneumonia ranked as the sixth leading cause of death.

Immunization is strongly recommended for individuals at higher risk of developing pneumonia, especially infants under two years old, adults over 65 years old, individuals with weakened or compromised immune systems, and those with chronic health conditions affecting the heart and lungs.

Vaccines are available for free at barangay or LGU health centers as part of the Department of Health's (DOH) National Immunization Program.

Dr. Lulu Bravo, the executive director of the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination, highlighted the increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure in individuals with chronic diseases who contract flu or pneumonia.

“Especially now that we know that the those who will have flu or pneumonia who have chronic diseases, illnesses can actually have heart attacks and strokes and kidney failure if they get flu.”

Pneumonia, caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi, is characterized by symptoms similar to influenza (flu), including fever, muscle and joint pains, sore throat, cough, colds, headache, and chills. While both flu and pneumonia can result from viral infections, pneumonia may also be caused by microorganisms like fungi or bacteria. Due to the overlapping symptoms, consulting a doctor for a workup, such as a blood test or chest x-ray, is crucial.

Individuals at higher risk, such as children under 2 years old, those aged 50 and above, individuals with conditions like diabetes and cancer, immunocompromised individuals, those with autoimmune disorders, and healthcare workers, are strongly advised to get vaccinated.

Dr. Bravo emphasized that failure to get vaccinated could result in misattributed causes of health issues, where vaccine-preventable diseases might be masked as conditions like stroke or heart attack.