Coughs, Colds and More Serious Illnesses

Supporting Information

Breastfeeding helps to protect babies from pneumonia and other illnesses. It is important to give breastmilk alone for the first six months of a baby's life.

At any age, a child who is well fed is less likely to become seriously ill or die.

Vitamin A helps protect against severe respiratory disease and other illnesses and speeds recovery. Vitamin A is found in breastmilk, liver, red palm oil, fish, dairy products, eggs, some orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, and green leafy vegetables. Vitamin A supplements can also be given by a health worker.

Immunization should be completed before the child is one year old. The child will then be protected against measles, which can lead to pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses, including whooping cough and tuberculosis.