The Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Varun Arjun Medical College & Research Hospital (VAMC & RH), under Varun Arjun University, organized an awareness program on the occasion of World Pneumonia Day, observed every year on 12th November to raise awareness about pneumonia — a leading infectious cause of death among children and the elderly. Since its inception in 2009, the day has served as a global call to action for the prevention and timely management of this life-threatening yet preventable and treatable disease. The program aimed to educate the community on pneumonia prevention and promote respiratory health.
An informative talk was delivered by Dr. Shahzeb Ali, Senior Resident, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, who explained in detail the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of pneumonia. He highlighted that pneumonia claims one child’s life every 43 seconds, causing nearly 700,000 deaths annually among children under five in developing countries, despite being preventable and curable through awareness, vaccination, and early diagnosis.
Dr. Shahzeb emphasized preventive strategies such as better vaccination coverage, improved nutrition, clean air, and access to quality healthcare, and discussed the role of vaccines like PCV, Influenza, Hib, and DPT in protection against pneumonia. He sensitized the audience about red flag signs warranting immediate medical attention — including rapid breathing, chest indrawing, noisy breathing, high fever, bluish discoloration of lips or nails, chest pain, confusion, and difficulty in breathing. He concluded with the impactful message: “Antibiotics + Oxygen + Care = Successful Treatment of Pneumonia.”
The session was attended by Dr. Anshumali Srivastava (Professor & Head), Dr. Irfan Ali (Associate Professor), Dr. Siwani, Dr. Rajat, Dr. Bhavya, Dr. Anurag, and Dr. Tirth Patel, along with faculty members, residents, patients, and attendants. The event received high appreciation from Dean & Principal, Dr. (Col.) R. N. Shukla, who commended the department’s efforts in raising awareness about such an important public health issue. The initiative was also applauded by the esteemed patrons — Hon’ble Chancellor of Varun Arjun University, Dr. Keshav Agarwal; Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Ashok Agarwal; Vice Chancellor of Bareilly International University, Dr. Lata Agarwal; and Vice Chancellor of Varun Arjun University, Dr. Kiran Agarwal — for the department’s dedication and contribution to health education and preventive care.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Anshumali Srivastava, Head of the Department, reaffirmed the commitment of VAMC & RH to promote respiratory health, emphasizing early detection and prompt management of pneumonia to save lives. The event successfully reflected the institution’s mission of integrating clinical excellence with community awareness for a healthier society.