Observed every year on 12 November since 2009, World Pneumonia Day was established by the Global Coalition Against Child Pneumonia, with support from the World Health Organization and UNICEF, to raise awareness of pneumonia’s toll on children’s health. Pneumonia remains the leading infectious cause of death in young children worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, despite being largely preventable and treatable.
The day highlights gaps in prevention and care: vaccine access, timely diagnosis, and the availability of antibiotics and oxygen. It also calls for stronger investment in child health systems to close them.