INNOVATIVE PREVENTION STRATEGIES FOR CHRONIC RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN 0–5 YEARS OLD (TAKING INTO ACCOUNT AIR POLLUTION AND CLIMATE FACTORS)

Abstract

Chronic respiratory infections (CRI) remain one of the leading causes of morbidity among children under five years of age worldwide. Environmental pollution, especially air contamination with particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), together with climate-related factors such as heat waves and seasonal temperature changes, significantly increase the vulnerability of children to respiratory diseases. The present study aimed to evaluate innovative prevention strategies for chronic respiratory infections in children aged 0–5 years while considering environmental and climatic conditions in Uzbekistan. The study was conducted using retrospective and analytical observational methods based on regional air quality indicators, MICS data, and UNICEF climate landscape analyses. Preventive measures included vaccination programs, the use of HEPA air filters, and AQI-based SMS and online warning systems for parents. The findings demonstrated that respiratory infections occurred 1.8–2 times more frequently in regions with high PM2.5 concentrations. Integrated preventive strategies reduced the incidence of CRI by approximately 30–40%. The study emphasizes the importance of combining environmental monitoring with medical prevention measures to protect children’s respiratory health.