Erythromycin is not recommended because it is insufficiently active against H. influenzae. All children with pneumonia should be reassessed by a health worker after two days of antimicrobial treatment at home. Most cough medicines are expensive and of little or no value for the management of the child with cough. In general, a productive cough should not be suppressed because it is a useful physiological reflex. Supportive measures should be directed to stimulating secretions.
Good hydration is the most beneficial approach.
Home-made cough remedies and warm herbal teas which have a soothing effect on the throat can be recommended. Infants under two months of age should be referred to a hospital for treatment with benzyl-penicillin plus gentamicin. The child has to receive oxygen if the child has central cyanosis, has severe chest indrawing, is grunting or is restless. Frequent breastfeeding and control of the temperature are also important. High grade fever.