Acute respiratory infections among under-5 children in India: A situational analysis
Kalaiselvi Selvaraj1, Palanivel Chinnakali2, Anindo Majumdar1
1Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India.
Insights
Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) remain a major threat to young children in India. Implementing cost-effective strategies like improved hygiene, breastfeeding, and vaccination is crucial for reducing ARI incidence and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are the primary cause of mortality in children under five years old in India.
- Factors contributing to high ARI incidence include emerging pathogens, re-emerging diseases, widespread antibiotic resistance, and insufficient immunization coverage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical factors driving the high incidence of ARIs in young Indian children.
- To emphasize the necessity of implementing low-cost interventions for substantial ARI burden reduction.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of existing literature and public health data concerning ARIs in India.
- Analysis of contributing factors and evaluation of the potential impact of specific interventions.
Main Results:
- Emergence of novel pathogens and antimicrobial resistance significantly exacerbate ARI burden.
- Suboptimal immunization rates persist despite various initiatives, contributing to the problem.
Conclusions:
- Drastic reduction in ARI burden requires sustained implementation of low-cost interventions.
- Key strategies include promoting hand washing, breastfeeding, ensuring access to rapid diagnostics, and strengthening the National Immunization Schedule with vaccines like the pentavalent vaccine.
Abstract:
Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are the leading cause of death among children less than 5 years in India. Emergence of newer pathogenic organisms, reemergence of disease previously controlled, wide spread antibiotic resistance, and suboptimal immunization coverage even after many innovative efforts are major factors responsible for high incidence of ARI. Drastic reduction in the burden of ARI by low-cost interventions such as hand washing, breast feeding, availability of rapid and feasible array of diagnostics, and introduction of pentavalent vaccine under National Immunization Schedule which are ongoing are necessary for reduction of ARI.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Respiratory Assessment: Purpose and Indications
Objectives and Importance:
The primary goal of respiratory assessment is to evaluate patients at early risk of clinical deterioration. Since respiratory distress often precedes other signs of declining health, breathing patterns and sounds become a...
01:23Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like...
01:31Common Respiratory Disorders
Upper respiratory disorders impact the airways above the vocal cords, encompassing areas like the nose, sinuses, and throat. Various conditions fall under this category, including the common cold and allergic rhinitis. These disorders can stem from several causes,...
01:29Acute Respiratory Failure-V
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...
01:20Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
01:30Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause: