Salim Ali's Birth Anniversary

Salim Ali, born on 12 November 1896, was an Indian ornithologist and naturalist. Sometimes referred to as the "Birdman of India", Salim Ali was the first Indian to conduct systematic bird surveys across India and wrote several bird books that popularized ornithology in India. He became a key figure behind the Bombay Natural History Society after 1947 and used his personal influence to garner government support for the organisation, create the Bharatpur bird sanctuary (Keoladeo National Park) and prevent the destruction of what is now the Silent Valley National Park. Along with Sidney Dillon Ripley he wrote the landmark ten volume Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan, a second edition of which was completed after his death. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1958 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1976, India's third and second highest civilian honours respectively. Several species of birds, a couple of bird sanctuaries and institutions have been named after him.

World Pneumonia Day

 

Every year, the world observes World Pneumonia Day which is dedicated to raising awareness about pneumonia. This disease is life-threatening but a preventable and treatable respiratory illness. This day focuses on pneumonia impact, especially among children under five and the elderly who are most vulnerable. This day also highlights prevention methods, advocating better options and reducing the mortality rate which are linked to pneumonia. 

World Pneumonia Day: History

World Pneumonia Day, observed on November 12, was established in 2009 by the Global Coalition against Child Pneumonia, which included organizations like UNICEF, WHO, and Save the Children. This observance was created to raise awareness of pneumonia, a leading cause of child mortality globally, despite it being preventable and treatable. 

Over the years, World Pneumonia Day has proved critical for advocating improved access to vaccines, healthcare, and awareness in fighting pneumonia and other respiratory infections. The World Pneumonia Day strives to give voice to the silent epidemic and encourage governments and health organisations to make pneumonia prevention a priority on the global health agenda.

World Pneumonia Day: Significance

Pneumonia remains a significant global health issue, especially for children under five in developing countries. World Pneumonia Day is crucial as it emphasizes the urgent need for action against this preventable disease, advocating for vaccination, proper nutrition, and clean air initiatives to reduce its prevalence. It provides a platform to address healthcare inequities and mobilize resources to improve treatment and preventive measures, highlighting the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare services worldwide. 

World Pneumonia Day provides a platform to advocate for affordable treatments and educate the public to recognise early symptoms, which could be lifesaving. This day aims to reduce pneumonia-related mortality and build healthier, resilient communities. 

The Global Burden of Disease says pneumonia claimed the lives of 2.2 million, including 502,000 children, with COVID-19 killing 10 million more, in 2021 alone. This illness is regarded as the “biggest infectious killer of children and adults,” and it is, therefore, critical to address this disease.