Pneumonia continues to be among the leading causes of infant deaths in Karnataka: Economic survey

Pneumonia continues to be among the leading causes of infant deaths in Karnataka, underscoring persistent gaps in early-life care. This, even as the State has made progress in reducing mortality from other conditions, according to the latest Economic Survey of Karnataka.

Data for 2025-26 (up to December 2025) showed that of the 4,709 infant deaths recorded, pneumonia accounted for 204 cases, remaining the single largest identified cause. In contrast, diarrhoea — once among the top contributors to infant mortality —  accounted for just 12 deaths, reflecting sustained public health gains.