The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a significant increase in cases of walking pneumonia, a milder form of pneumonia that affects younger children and older adults. The CDC estimates that approximately two million cases occur annually, with symptoms including fever, sore throat, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
Walking pneumonia differs from other respiratory infections like flu or cold due to its unique presentation. It settles in the chest quickly, leaving individuals feeling short of breath, but congestion is often short-lived. The CDC attributes the recent uptick in cases to a combination of factors, including the end of a cycle of infections and the post-pandemic drop in antibodies.
Experts emphasize the importance of proper diagnosis, which can be made through testing for the bacterium M. pneumoniae or chest X-rays. If left untreated, walking pneumonia can lead to further complications.
To protect oneself from getting walking pneumonia, it is recommended to avoid crowded indoor settings with poor ventilation, wear masks if necessary, and maintain good hand hygiene. By following these guidelines, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting the illness.
A recent surge in cases may prompt some to wonder when a new cycle of infections will begin. According to Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos, associate professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital, it is likely that walking pneumonia is experiencing a natural peak due to a combination of factors.
Source: https://time.com/7203467/what-is-walking-pneumonia