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Respiratory Infections

Pneumonia, flu and respiratory infections are more severe in community children and adults. Vaccinations, prevention and treatment.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

Respiratory Infections

## Respiratory Infections — More Severe in the Community

Community children and adults are more susceptible to severe respiratory infections due to: crowded housing, passive smoking, below-average vaccination rates, late medical consultation.

## Common Infections

Flu: annual vaccination free for diabetics, children, elderly, pregnant women. COVID-19: updated vaccination recommended. Pneumonia: Pneumococcal vaccination free for those over 65. RSV (under 2): new vaccine (nirsevimab) free from 2024.

## When to Go to the ER?

Shortness of breath + blue lips. Fever over 39.5°C not coming down. Baby without urination for 8 hours.

## Prevention

Annual flu vaccination. Pneumococcal vaccination. Hand washing. Well-ventilated rooms.

📞 Health fund for vaccinations | Emergency: MDA 101

Research figures

  • Pneumonia Hospitalisation

    ×1.9

    Pneumonia hospitalisation rate in community children vs average

    Source: Soroka Medical Center · 2022

Shortness of breath + blue lips = immediate ER. MDA 101.

Common Health Conditions in the Community

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