Pneumonia in Children
What is pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes inflammation and fluid build-up in the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. It can affect part of one lung (lobar pneumonia) or spread throughout both lungs (bronchopneumonia).
What causes pneumonia?
- Viruses: RSV, flu, COVID-19, adenovirus
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus
- Less common causes: Fungi, aspiration (inhalation of food/liquid), or exposure to smoke or pollution
What are the symptoms?
- High fever
- Cough (may be dry or wet)
- Breathing fast or with difficulty
- Chest or tummy pain
- Loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Lethargy, tiredness, or fussiness
- Blue lips or fingernails in severe cases
How is pneumonia diagnosed?
- Clinical examination (listening to the chest)
- Oxygen levels (pulse oximetry)
- Chest X-ray in selected cases
- Sputum tests
Treatment options:
- Mild pneumonia: Often managed at home with rest, fluids, and antibiotics (if bacterial)
- Severe pneumonia: May require hospital admission, oxygen, IV fluids or antibiotics
- Viral pneumonia: Usually improves with supportive care; antiviral medicines may be used in some cases
Can pneumonia be prevented?
Yes. Prevention strategies include:
- Routine childhood vaccinations (e.g. pneumococcal, flu, whooping cough)
- Good hand hygiene
- Avoiding exposure to smoke or vaping
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