What is the leading cause of death in children under 5 years old?

Correct option is D

Pneumonia is the leading cause of death in children under 5 years worldwide. It is a serious respiratory infection that affects the lungs, making breathing difficult. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and leads to severe complications if not treated. Vaccination, early diagnosis, and antibiotics can help reduce child mortality from pneumonia.
Explanation of Each Option:
· Diarrhea: A major cause of child mortality, but it can be managed with ORS and fluid therapy. Severe cases lead to dehydration, but pneumonia remains the top killer.
· Pneumonia: Correct answer; accounts for a significant number of child deaths due to severe lung infection, oxygen deprivation, and complications like sepsis.
· Measles: Can cause severe complications like encephalitis, pneumonia, and malnutrition, but it is preventable through vaccination.
· Smallpox: Once a deadly disease, but it was eradicated globally in 1980 after successful vaccination campaigns.