Pneumonia (lung infection) is very common in children and adults with Sickle Cell Disease. Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease are at high risk of developing an acute infection of the pulmonary parenchyma called community‐acquired pneumonia. 

Individuals with SCD start to have signs of Pneumonia during the first year of life, usually around 5 months of age. Symptoms and complications of SCD are different for each person and can range from mild to severe.

SIGNS OF PNEUMONIA

• Fever
• Frequent coughing
• Rapid breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty �grunting�
• Tiredness
• Chest pain

TREATMENT/ MANAGEMENT OF PNEUMONIA

• Take the individual to the hospital to see the doctor if the above signs show
• The individual should use the prescribed medication religiously 
• The individual should wear warm clothing during the cold season.

A PARENT HANDBOOK FOR SICKLE CELL DISEASE IN NIGERIA. Part One: 0 - 6 Years

A PARENT HANDBOOK FOR SICKLE CELL DISEASE IN NIGERIA Part Two: 6‐18 Years