What is pneumonia? The common infection that caused Sam Neill's death
New Zealand actor Sam Neill has passed away at age 78 due to pneumonia. The article discusses the severity of the infection, particularly for older adults, despite it being a common and often treatable condition.
Why it matters
It serves as a public health reminder about the risks of pneumonia, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
The illness that claimed the beloved New Zealand actor's life is one that doctors see every day.
Audrey Courty for ABC 17 July 2026 4 min read Caption: New Zealand actor Sam Neill died this week at 78. Photo credit: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly From surviving rampaging dinosaurs to confronting supernatural horrors on screen, Sam Neill built a career portraying characters who faced extraordinary dangers.
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