Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes inflammation in one or both the lungs. This may be caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi. While anyone at any age can get pneumonia, children and older adults are more susceptible to catching this infection. In cases of severe infection, this can become a life-threatening situation especially for newborns. World Pneumonia Day is observed annually on 12th November to raise awareness about this acute respiratory infection. One of the most searched queries on pneumonia is if this infection is contagious. We reached out to Dr Pooja Khanna, Assistant Professor, Pediatric Department at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad to find the answer. Scroll down to find her response.
Is Pneumonia Contagious?
The answer is YES, most pneumonia are contagious. Pneumonia caused by viruses or bacteria is contagious. This is more common when people are in close contact with one another, like in crowded places like waiting areas, buses etc. In the case of children, schools or creches are the most common places for the spread of germs causing pneumonia, answers Dr Khanna.
She also listed potential modes of spread of infective organism including:
- Sharing utensils or cups
- Coughs and sneezing that are not covered
- Touching a cloth or other item after someone with an infection has used it
How does pneumonia spread from person to person?
Dr Khanna explains “Pneumonia caused by fungi and aspiration pneumonia does not spread from person to person. The causative organism can be transmitted a few days before the appearance of symptoms till a few days after. The exact duration of this infective stage depends on the type of microorganism.”
“When one person spreads the germs that cause pneumonia to another person, it can cause a variety of infections in the recipient. The infection in the recipient may vary from a mild cold to severe pneumonia. This makes the elderly, small children and immunocompromised people vulnerable as they have decreased immunity,” she adds.
One of the most common examples of a contagious pneumonia we all saw was COVID. We all witnessed how Coronavirus spread from one person to another and caused the infection. And in lockdown, compulsory use of face masks and social distancing was necessary to control its spread. Another example is the Influenza virus. Whenever a person in a family gets an infection, we find that other family members also get affected too.
Also Read: What Is The Difference Between Viral Pneumonia and Bacterial Pneumonia
Watch this video for an ayurvedic treatment to ease cold and cough:
How to prevent the transmission of pneumonia?
Precautions can be taken to prevent the spread of germs causing pneumonia from one person to another. These include:
- You should regularly wash your hands and use a tissue while coughing or sneezing
- You should not share cups and utensils with the infected person
- You should stay at home when ill from fever or cough
- Avoiding locations with inadequate air ventilation
- Staying up to date with vaccinations
- Use of face masks
The important point to note is that not every person who gets the germ might get pneumonia. However, the severity of the infection varies. But it is always better to take precautions, as they say- prevention is better than cure. Follow all the precautionary tips mentioned above to stay safe and healthy. Besides, consult a doctor immediately if you experience any critical symptoms that may prove to be life-threatening. Do not ignore symptoms and never take medications without consultation to avert potential side effects.
