Pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs caused by infection. Pneumonia can cause mild to severe symptoms. Some of the common symptoms experienced by people with pneumonia are coughing up phlegm, fever, and shortness of breath.
Pneumonia is also known as wet lung . In this condition, the infection causes inflammation of the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. As a result, the alveoli are filled with fluid or pus, making it difficult for sufferers to breathe.
Pneumonia can be caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19 is a type of virus that can cause pneumonia. Pneumonia can sometimes also appear with other lung diseases, such as pulmonary TB .
Pneumonia is one of the highest causes of death in children worldwide. Data from the World Health Organization states that in 2019, as many as 740,180 children died from pneumonia.
If you or your child has symptoms of pneumonia and needs a COVID-19 test, click the link below so you can be directed to the nearest health facility:
- Antibody Rapid Test
- Swab Antigen (Rapid Test Antigen)
- PCR
Pneumonia Causes and Symptoms
Pneumonia can be caused by bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Several viruses that commonly cause pneumonia are influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2. While the common type of bacteria that causes pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumonia .
Pneumonia symptoms are quite varied. However, generally pneumonia is characterized by coughing up phlegm, fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain when breathing or coughing, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and an easily tired body.
Pneumonia Treatment and Prevention
Pneumonia treatment will be adjusted to the cause and severity experienced by the patient. Pneumonia due to a bacterial infection will be treated with antibiotics. Doctors can also give other pneumonia drugs to relieve symptoms of cough, fever or pain.
Pneumonia can be prevented in several ways, including getting vaccinated , maintaining personal hygiene, for example washing your hands diligently and not touching your nose or mouth with unwashed hands, and avoiding contact with people who are sick