Guidelines
Severe Pneumonia

Severe Pneumonia

Adolescent or Adult

Fever or suspected respiratory infection, plus one of the following:

  • Respiratory rate > 30 breaths/min
  • Revere respiratory distress
  • SpO₂ ≤ 93% on room air

Child

With cough or difficulty in breathing, plus at least one of the following:

  • Central cyanosis or SpO₂ < 90%
  • Severe respiratory distress (e.g. grunting, very severe chest indrawing)
  • Signs of pneumonia with a general danger sign: inability to breastfeed or drink, lethargy or unconsciousness, or convulsions

Other signs of pneumonia may be present:

  • Chest indrawing
  • Fast breathing (in breaths/min): < 2 months: ≥ 60 2–11 months: ≥ 50 1–5 years: ≥ 40 (16)

While the diagnosis is made on clinical grounds; chest imaging may identify or exclude some pulmonary complications.