Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that most often occurs after a cold or the flu. Symptoms include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, sweating and fever. Left untreated, pneumonia can be fatal.
Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. The most common cause is bacteria. These bacteria usually enter your body through your nose or mouth and travel to your lungs where they infect the alveoli – the tiny air sacs where gas exchange takes place.
There are several different types of pneumonia, including viral pneumonia, bacterial pneumonia and fungal pneumonia. Treatment depends on the type of pneumonia you have. Viral pneumonias are usually treated with rest, plenty of fluids and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. Bacterial pneumonias require antibiotics to clear the infection and may also require hospitalization for intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy. Fungal pneumonias are treated with antifungal medications given either intravenously or orally.
You can lower your risk of developing pneumonia by getting vaccinated against some of the viruses that cause it such as influenza (flu) virus or SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19). You should also practice good hygiene habits such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with people who are sick