Jaipur: Rajasthan govt will run the SAANS campaign from Nov 12 to Feb 28 to prevent pneumonia among children under five, ensure timely treatment and strengthen community awareness under the message, “No pneumonia means a healthy childhood.”Health and medical education minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar said the campaign reflects the state govt’s commitment to improving child health and reducing child mortality. National Newborn Week will also be observed from Nov 15 to 21.Hospitals across the state have been instructed to ensure adequate availability of testing equipment and antibiotics required for pneumonia treatment.As part of the campaign, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) will conduct door-to-door visits to identify pneumonia symptoms in children under five and provide initial management. Serious cases will be referred immediately to medical institutions, with emphasis on post-treatment follow-up and community-level awareness.Health department officials said severe pneumonia symptoms in children may include cough, rapid breathing, fever, inability to breastfeed or drink liquids, vomiting and seizures. Extreme lethargy or unconsciousness may also signal severe illness. Children with these symptoms should be taken immediately to the nearest govt hospital or doctor.The campaign will focus on awareness about protection, prevention and treatment of childhood pneumonia, early recognition of danger signs, timely care-seeking and proper referral. It will also promote the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine as an important preventive measure.Officials said coordinated efforts by health workers, frontline staff, community institutions and other stakeholders are expected to improve awareness, encourage timely medical care and increase uptake of preventive and treatment services.
