Unicef says pneumonia is still one of the leading causes of death in babies and young children in the Pacific region and parents should be alert to rapid breathing, coughing and a fever.
The Chief of Health and Nutrition for UNICEF Pacific says despite an 11 percent decrease in the number of cases of pneumonia since 1990, it still represents a real threat to children under the age of five.
Dr Naawa Siplinayambe says childhood vaccinations, good hygiene and nutrition, can help protect children but parents should be aware of the three key signs of pneumonia and seek early treatment.
"So you'd have the fast breathing, the cough and also the fever. So if you have these three symptoms, you need to make sure that the child accesses a health provider within 24 hours minimum."
Unicef's Pacific head Dr Naawa Siplinayambe.
