Preventing pediatric pneumonia: role of vaccination and socioeconomic factors

Pediatric pneumonia remains a leading cause of mortality in children under five, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This paper explores how socioeconomic factors—particularly income, maternal education, and healthcare access—affect pneumonia incidence and outcomes. The protective role of childhood vaccination is also examined, revealing significant disparities in immunization coverage due to financial and infrastructural barriers. Interventions targeting these social determinants are critical to reducing the burden of pediatric pneumonia and achieving sustainable public health improvements.