Homeopathy child dies of pneumonia

Child dies of pneumonia: homeopathic doctors warn against self-treatment

28.10.2011

The German Central Association of Homeopathic Doctors (DZVhÄ) warns against the self-treatment of serious diseases. In Italy, a toddler died of pneumonia last Thursday, according to the newspaper „La Republica“ had been treated homeopathically by his parents only. In addition to the pneumonia, the boy suffered from gastroenteritis. Currently, the competent prosecutor investigates for negligent homicide against the couple. They failed to have the child examined by a specialist, although his symptoms persisted and were alarming, according to examining magistrate Alberto Santacatterina. The child's father claims to be a specialist in homeopathy in his CV, but is not registered as a homeopath in Italy. „The self-treatment of pneumonia is generally irresponsible“, says Cornelia Bajic, first chairman of the DZVhÄ, „whether with homeopathic remedies or other medicines.“

The treatment of this disease belongs in the hands of a pediatrician, who then has to decide on a meaningful therapy. „A homeopathic pediatrician knows the limits of medical homeopathy as well as the limitations of conventional pharmacotherapy“, explains Bajic. Self-appointed specialists in homeopathy are a great danger for both patients and the reputation of homeopathic doctors. The DZVhÄ is responsible for the further education and training of homeopathic doctors, which is prescribed by the medical associations. Bajic: „Only a profound medical education enables you to treat diseases that are among the most common causes of child mortality in Germany.“ According to the Deutsches Ärzteblatt, around 300,000 children under the age of five die every year in Europe. Apart from perinatal complications (44 percent), diarrhea (13 percent) and pneumonia (12 percent) are the leading causes of death. (Pm)

Thommy Weiss