When is Pneumonia Contagious?

Pneumonia is one of the major disorder of the lung which is caused by viral or bacterial infection. The infection leads to inflammation in the lung parenchyma (except the bronchi). Inflammation in the bronchi causes bronchitis, which is a condition more or less similar to pneumonia. Pneumonia is usually observed in people with a weak immune system like children or older people. However, it is not limited to any age group, and can also be seen in healthy people. Pneumonia can be caused due to number of reasons and most of the stains of pneumonia are contagious.

What Causes Pneumonia
Bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae; viruses like Adenoviruses, Herpes viruses, Influenza virus, etc. are the prominent pathogens that cause pneumonia. These bacteria or viruses can be community-acquired or can enter the lungs if one comes in contact with a person suffering from this disorder. Outbreak of other diseases like bird flu or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) can also lead to pneumonia.

What are the Symptoms of Pneumonia
Symptoms of pneumonia are similar to that of influenza (flu). However, symptoms of pneumonia are more severe and appear very quickly. The signs and symptoms of pneumonia in children and adults include cough, shortness of breath, fever, sweating, chills, chest pain, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, etc. Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties are the major symptoms of this condition.

Is Pneumonia Contagious
Yes, pneumonia is contagious. However, it should be noted that the disease in itself is not contagious, but the causes of it are. For e.g., viruses causing pneumonia are contagious and any person coming in contact with the one suffering from it, can contract the disease.

At What Stage is Pneumonia Contagious
Pneumonia develops within 1-2 days of contraction. It is contagious as long as the symptoms like cough and fever are present. Therefore, it is wise to avoid close physical contact with people suffering from the above mentioned symptoms. Therefore, we can say that from its onset to treatment, pneumonia is contagious for around 3-4 days.

How Long is Pneumonia Contagious
It is contagious until all the symptoms subside. Even after taking antibiotics, pneumonia can be contagious for up to 48 hours.

When is Pneumonia not Contagious
As mentioned above, pneumonia is contagious for some time after taking antibiotics. The disease is no longer contagious only when the symptoms subside completely. The cough should stop completely and fever should subside completely.

How is Pneumonia Treated
Bacterial pneumonia is treated with the help of antibiotics; while anti fungal medication is used to treat fungal pneumonia. Taking full course of antibiotics is essential to treat the disease completely. None of these medications are effective against viral pneumonia. One should take rest and have lot of fluids to get rid of viral pneumonia.

How is Pneumonia Prevented
Getting vaccinated is the best treatment method for pneumonia. Secondly, following good habits of cleanliness and hygiene also helps in prevention of the disease. It is also essential to have a proper diet and exercise regularly to improve immunity to fight off the infections.

Lastly, remember that pneumonia can be mild to life-threatening, and hence, it is advisable to consult the doctor if any of these symptoms are observed. Take care!