Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are any infections that affect the lungs or the airways below the voice box. They include pneumonia, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, tuberculosis, and influenza. LRTIs are a major public health problem worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries, which account for about 11% of all deaths¹. In South Africa, LRTIs are the second leading cause of death among children under five years old and the fourth leading cause of death among adolescents aged 10-19 years old².

LRTIs can have severe complications and long-term effects on the health and well-being of adolescents. Therefore, it is important to know how to identify the signs and symptoms of LRTIs and seek timely medical attention. Some of the common symptoms of LRTIs are:

– A cough that lasts more than two weeks or produces yellow or green phlegm

– Fever, chills, or night sweats

– Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or chest pain

– Loss of appetite, weight loss, or fatigue

– Bluish or pale skin colour

If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, you should visit a health facility as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the type and severity of the infection, you may need antibiotics, antivirals, oxygen therapy, or hospitalisation. You should also follow the advice of your healthcare provider on how to prevent spreading the infection to others, such as covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands frequently, and staying at home until you recover.

There are also some preventive measures that you can take to reduce your risk of getting LRTIs, such as:

– Getting vaccinated against common causes of LRTIs, such as pneumococcus, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), measles, whooping cough, and influenza.

– Avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust, chemicals, and allergens that can irritate your lungs.

– Eating a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

– Drinking enough water to stay hydrated and thin the mucus in your lungs.

– Exercising regularly to strengthen your immune system and improve your lung function.

– Seeking early treatment for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), such as colds or sore throats, that can progress to LRTIs.

LRTIs are a severe threat to the health and survival of adolescents in South Africa. By knowing how to identify them and seeking timely medical care, you can prevent complications and improve your chances of recovery. By taking preventive measures and adopting healthy behaviours, you can protect yourself and others from getting LRTIs. Together, we can fight LRTIs and save lives.

Source: Conversation with Bing, 10/25/2023

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