Pneumonia is the cause of more than 15,000 deaths and 90,000 hospitalizations in Spain every year, according to data from Pfizer. The fall and winter months show the highest incidence of this condition, which can seriously affect both the elderly and children.
In the case of children, pneumonia can be caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), Staphylococcus aureus, Legionella, and Haemophilus influenzae, leading to rapid onset of high fever and particularly fast breathing. It can also be caused by viruses such as influenza and varicella, resulting in the gradual appearance of symptoms that are less severe.
Certain types of pneumonia produce symptoms that provide important clues about the germ causing the disease. For example, in older children and teenagers, pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma (also called walking pneumonia) is easy to detect because it causes a sore throat, headache, and rash, in addition to the usual pneumonia symptoms.
In babies, when caused by chlamydia, it can lead to mild conjunctivitis (irritated eyes) without a fever. If pneumonia is due to whooping cough (pertussis), the child may experience prolonged coughing fits, turn blue due to lack of air, or make the classic “whooping” sound while trying to breathe.
Throughout this process, children may experience weight loss due to loss of appetite and increased energy expenditure due to limited oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. Therefore, it is essential to support their nutrition to help them better combat the disease.
It is crucial to provide them with a high-calorie diet with nutritious protein-rich foods to maintain their nutritional status and prevent complications. Their diet should include clear liquids (water, fruit juices, gelatin, tea, lemonade, and hot chicken broth, which also helps relax the airways and eliminate mucus) to prevent dehydration. Babies under 12 months should continue to consume breast milk or formula, and from the age of one, whole milk can be introduced.
Solid foods should be introduced in smaller amounts but always packed with calories and proteins to promote healthy weight gain and support their immune system. For example, meat, fish, and eggs.
Fruits and vegetables are also very useful for children with pneumonia due to their high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Brightly colored ones such as broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, peppers, oranges, apples, and melons are particularly beneficial. Whole grains, rice, or pasta provide selenium and zinc, protecting against damage from free radicals, while dairy products like yogurt, milk, or cheese contribute probiotics and vitamin E to the body.