Table 1

WHO classification of acute lower respiratory infection in children presenting with cough and/or difficult breathing

Number of pneumonia (cough and cold)

  • Respiratory rate, breaths/minute

  • <50 (infants 2–11 months)

  • <40 (children 12–59 months)

  • No lower chest indrawing

Non-severe pneumonia

  • Respiratory rate, breaths/minute

  • >50 (infants 2–11 months)

  • >40 (children 12–59 months)

  • No lower chest indrawing

Severe pneumoniaLower chest indrawing ± rapid breathing
Very severe pneumoniaAt least one of the following:

  • Unable to feed

  • Convulsions

  • Lethargic

  • Stridor at rest

  • Clinically severe malnutrition