Jombang, Indonesia records 52 pneumonia deaths during dry season

Between January and mid‑July 2026, 52 residents of Jombang Regency in East Java died after contracting pneumonia. Hospital data show 617 patients were treated for the disease in the same period, with a daily intake of two to three new cases.

Local health officials attribute the surge to the extreme dry season, which brings hot, dusty conditions that increase acute respiratory infections (ISPA) that can develop into pneumonia. Dr. Puji Umbaran, director of RSUD Jombang, warned that the mortality rate is concerning and could rise if preventive measures are ignored. The hospital has urged the public to wear masks when outdoors, especially during hot and windy weather, to help curb the spread of ISPA and subsequent pneumonia cases.