Who gets Childhood Pneumonia

Anyone can develop pneumonia but the risk is greater in babies and children aged four years and under, and the elderly. Other risk factors include:

• recently having had a cold or the flu
• having a chronic lung condition
• having a weakened immune system
• drinking excessive alcohol or smoking
• being a patient in hospital.

In children, the risk of pneumonia is increased by:

• premature birth
• poor nutrition
• low birth weight
• reduced rates of breastfeeding
• exposure to tobacco smoke
• lack of insulation and heating
• living in damp, mouldy and/or overcrowded conditions.

Source: Health Navigator New Zealand