Condition · J18

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is the leading cause of death in children under 5 in Tanzania. It requires prompt antibiotic treatment — do not delay seeking care.

Always confirm diagnosis and treatment with a qualified health professional.

Compiled from public health references including the CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the World Health Organization, and the Tanzania Ministry of Health.

Overview

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs. Causes include bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae), viruses (influenza, RSV), and fungi. Children under 5, the elderly, HIV-positive individuals, and malnourished persons are at highest risk.

Common Symptoms

Cough (may produce yellow or green mucus or blood)
Fever and chills
Rapid or difficult breathing
Chest pain when breathing or coughing
Fatigue
In young children: fast breathing, chest in-drawing, inability to feed

Treatment

Mild-moderate: Oral amoxicillin (first-line for children) or co-trimoxazole
Severe: Hospitalisation, IV penicillin or ampicillin, oxygen therapy
Supportive care: rest, fluids, fever management
Pneumococcal vaccine reduces risk of bacterial pneumonia

Prevention

Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13) — given free to infants under the immunisation schedule
Hib vaccine — protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b
Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months strengthens infant immunity
Avoid indoor smoke (cooking fires, tobacco)
Good hand hygiene

Cost & NHIF Coverage

Public facilities: Diagnosis (clinical + chest X-ray where available) and antibiotics at low or subsidised cost; under-5 pneumonia treatment is often free.

NHIF: Covers consultation, X-ray, and medication at accredited facilities; admission covered if hospitalisation is required.

Private facilities: Consultation + X-ray TZS 20,000–50,000; antibiotic course TZS 10,000–30,000; admission for severe cases can run several hundred thousand TZS.

Estimated ranges — actual cost varies by facility. Confirm with reception and check your insurer's coverage before treatment.