Causes of pneumonia
Pneumonia can be caused by many factors, like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The different causes of pneumonia are:
1. Bacteria:
Bacteria are a common factor and cause of adult pneumonia cases. Many types of bacteria can lead to pneumonia, and among them, Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most widely spread in most countries. There are instances of different types of pneumonia caused by different bacteria; for example, Mycoplasma pneumoniae is responsible for a milder form often referred to as “walking pneumonia,” and on the other hand, Legionella pneumophila leads to a serious type known as Legionnaires’ disease.
2. Viruses:
Viruses that infect the lungs and airways are another cause of pneumonia. In adults, the influenza virus, or flu, and the rhinovirus, or common cold, are the primary viral reasons for pneumonia. Similarly, in young children, the respiratory syncytial virus is a common cause of viral pneumonia.
It is also to be noted that viruses like SARS-CoV-2, which are responsible for COVID-19, can also lead to pneumonia.
3. Fungi:
Fungal infections, mostly caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii, may lead to pneumonia in individuals with compromised immune systems. Also, certain fungi present in the soil can also be a major cause of pneumonia.
Is Pneumonia Contagious?
Pneumonia induced by viruses or bacterial infections may exhibit contagious tendencies. Individuals with compromised immune systems could find themselves at an elevated risk of falling ill. It is advisable for those with weakened immune responses to exercise more vigilance against pneumonia. Read below this article to find out everything you need to know about pneumonia and its effects.
Is Pneumonia contagious?
Table of Content
- Recognising the Symptoms of Pneumonia
- Practical Tips for Preventing Pneumonia Spread
- When to Seek Medical Attention for Pneumonia
- When and How is Pneumonia Contagious?
- Incubation Period of Pneumonia
- Contagious Types of Pneumonia
- Noncontagious Pneumonia Types
- Can pneumonia spread from person to person?
- Modes of Pneumonia Transmission
- Causes of pneumonia
- Pneumonia Day
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