Pneumonia Prevention 101: Why Clean Air Is Your First Line of Defence

• Pneumonia is a serious health threat – Recent cases, including Pope Francis’ hospitalization and the tragic passing of a popular Asian celebrity, highlight its dangers, especially for vulnerable individuals.
• Common misconceptions in Indonesia – Many believe high humidity alone causes pneumonia ("paru-paru basah"), but in reality, infections are the main cause, though excessive humidity can worsen respiratory risks.
• The role of air purifiers and dehumidifiers –  Air purifiers help remove airborne bacteria and viruses, while dehumidifiers prevent mold and dust mites, both of which can contribute to respiratory illnesses.
• Preventative measures for better respiratory health – Maintaining hygiene, getting vaccinated, ensuring good ventilation, and using air care products like those from Higienis Indonesia can help lower the risk of pneumonia.

Recent cases of pneumonia making global headlines remind us just how critical respiratory health is. Pope Francis was recently hospitalized with pneumonia in both lungs, while the world mourns the tragic loss of well-known Korean and Chinese celebrities to complications from the disease. These incidents highlight that pneumonia isn’t just another seasonal illness—it can be life-threatening, especially for those with weakened immune systems.

What Is Pneumonia and How Do People Get It?

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli), filling them with fluid or pus. This results in difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, fever, chills, and fatigue. The infection can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, with common culprits including Streptococcus pneumoniae, influenza viruses, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes or through contact with contaminated surfaces.

While most healthy individuals recover with proper treatment, pneumonia can be deadly for infants, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions. Severe cases can lead to respiratory failure, sepsis, or organ damage.

The Myth of "Paru-Paru Basah"

In Indonesia, many people mistakenly refer to pneumonia as "paru-paru basah" (literally "wet lungs"). There is a common belief that exposure to high humidity alone can cause the lungs to "drown" in moisture and lead to pneumonia. However, pneumonia is not directly caused by humidity but by infections.

That said, high humidity can indirectly increase pneumonia risk. Damp environments create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and mold spores—all of which can trigger respiratory infections. Excessive moisture in the air can also make breathing more difficult, especially for those with pre-existing lung conditions.

How Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers Can Help

Since pneumonia is often caused by airborne pathogens and worsened by poor indoor air quality, maintaining a clean and healthy home environment is essential. This is where air purifiers and dehumidifiers from Higienis Indonesia can make a difference.

Simple Steps for Better Air and Better Health

Preventing pneumonia requires a combination of good hygiene, vaccinations, and clean indoor air. In addition to using air purifiers and dehumidifiers, you can reduce your risk by:

• Washing hands regularly
• Wearing masks in crowded places
• Ensuring proper ventilation at home and work

As Burt Bacharach once wrote, "What do you get when you kiss a guy? You get enough germs to catch pneumonia..." But don’t worry—kissing won’t actually give you pneumonia. However, if your home's humidity and pollution levels are high, you might just end up with it!

The latest pneumonia cases should serve as a wake-up call to prioritize respiratory health. Investing in air purifiers and dehumidifiers from Higienis Indonesia is an easy yet powerful step toward a safer, healthier home for you and your loved ones.