SAN JOSE, Aug. 2 (elmundo.cr) – Those taking part in Romería 2023 will see 68 different silhouettes starting from the heights of Ochomogo, representing the nearly 68 deaths a month in the country people with pneumonia.
The action is part of a campaign by Pfizer to raise awareness about how this respiratory infection affects the population and how to prevent it.
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames one or both lungs and can be caused by a variety of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, or fungi). Although this condition can happen to people of all ages, it can happen to babies and young children, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems or other health problems (such as heart disease, diabetes, liver disease) , the condition is often more serious with the kidneys.
Video shows silhouette of Pfizer pneumonia campaign
This type of respiratory infection is classified by the bacteria that causes it and where the infection occurs. Specifically, it may be caused by pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) Or certain viruses such as covid-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza and parainfluenza, and adenovirus.
“About 816 people have died this year from pneumonia and were unable to participate in the pilgrimage. Given this impact figure and the moment the country is going through due to an increase in respiratory infections, Pfizer wants to create awareness of the possible consequences of the disease, from breathing difficulties to to death, and what preventive measures, such as vaccination, can be taken in a timely manner in pursuit of safety and overall health,” said Dr Lenny Figueroa, Medical Leader, Vaccines (CAC), Pfizer Central America and the Caribbean.
According to the Department of Health, the states with the highest death rates in the country between 2014 and 2017 were Atenas (Alajuela), Osa (Puntarenas) and Dota (San Jose). state).
It is important to note that pneumonia can cause chest pain when coughing or breathing, coughing up pus or sputum, tiredness, fever and even sweating, chills, as well as vomiting and diarrhea. (See box: “Possible consequences of pneumonia”).
Prevention through vaccination
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), immunization prevents between 3.5 and 5 million deaths from disease each year. because?Because vaccines boost the body’s natural defenses and help you fight infection more effectively.
Because vaccines are so safe and save lives, they are considered an important tool in preventing certain types of pneumonia. It is important to discuss with the treating physician to review the appropriate vaccination schedule on an individual basis, whether for this disease or for other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Another important preventive measure is good hygiene, including consistent hand washing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers; also, refraining from contact with sick people. Also, keep your immune system strong by not smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly.
“At Pfizer, we believe the best time to stop a bacteria or virus is before it infects people. On this pilgrimage, we urge people to take appropriate steps to prevent the spread of respiratory infections, including through vaccinations, so they can protect themselves, the lives of those around us and of Costa Rican society as a whole,” concluded Dr Figueroa.