The outlook for pneumonia.
Pneumonia is the number one killer of children around the world, but receives substantially less funding or global attention than malaria, diarrhoea or HIV/AIDs. In an attempt to lower global mortality figures, the WHO released updated treatment protocols for the disease, calling for an expanded frontline distribution of antibiotics to children at the home and community level. However, despite being published in 2012, the guidelines have been poorly implemented and mortality rates are stagnating.
If effectively rolled out, new community-based management of pneumonia could significantly lower the mortality rates of young children.
Expanded frontline antibiotic distribution in developing nations will increase demand for pharmaceutical commodities.
The new guidelines could shift the burden of disease management from overcrowded healthcare facilities to home-caring.
