Pneumonia can be a mild or serious infection, but can you spread or catch it? Learn more about pneumonia from your trusted AFC Athens team. 

When the weather cools down, we’re in desperate need of some fun indoor activities. Lively restaurants like Angela’s Miami Grill keep our brains sharp with weekly SINGO nights while karaoke at Social Depot Hill is sure to bring out your inner rock star. But after spending a little too long swapping germs at your favorite Athens hotspots (or even at work and school), respiratory illness cases begin to skyrocket.  

One of the more serious infections that can develop is pneumonia – an illness that deserves quick attention and proper care. If you’re wondering whether pneumonia is contagious and what symptoms to watch for, here’s what you should know. 

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What Is Pneumonia? 

Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. When these germs settle into the tiny air sacs in your lungs, your immune system kicks into gear. This immune response causes lung tissue to swell and fill with fluid or pus, which makes it harder for air to move freely through your lungs. 

A few key things to know: 

• Pneumonia can affect one or both lungs.  
• Airways become blocked with phlegm, causing shortness of breath. 
• The type of pneumonia you have depends on the germ that caused it. 
• Treatment varies based on the cause and severity of your symptoms. 

Types of Pneumonia 

Pneumonia is typically divided into three categories based on the pathogen: 

Bacterial Pneumonia 

• The most common and often the most severe form. 
• More likely to require hospitalization, especially in people with weakened immune systems. 
• This bacteria can also cause other infections, such as sinus infections, ear infections and even meningitis. 

Viral Pneumonia 

• Causes flu-like symptoms and often resolves on its own. 
• Viruses that may lead to pneumonia include the flu, common cold, RSV and COVID-19. 

Fungal Pneumonia 

• Less common 
• More likely in immunocompromised individuals.  

Symptoms of Pneumonia 

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of pneumonia and your overall health. Those at highest risk include young children, older adults, smokers, pregnant women and individuals with chronic lung or heart conditions or weakened immune systems. 

Common symptoms include: 

• High fever 
• A cough producing yellow, green or bloody mucus 
• Fatigue 
• Rapid or difficult breathing 
• Chest or abdominal pain (especially when taking a deep breath or coughing) 
• Sweating and chills 
• Headaches or body aches 

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice bluish skin, lips or nails; this can be a sign of cyanosis, a potentially life-threatening condition. 

Is Pneumonia Contagious? 

This is one of the most common questions we hear. The short answer is: the pneumonia infection itself isn’t contagious, but the germs that cause it are. 

According to the American Lung Association: 

• You can catch the bacteria or viruses that may lead to pneumonia. 
• Not everyone exposed will actually develop pneumonia. 
• You can spread these germs even if you don’t have symptoms yet. 

How Pneumonia Germs Spread 

You’re more likely to develop pneumonia when in close proximity with someone who is already infected. If they have coughed, sneezed or talked near you, they’ve spread their contaminated respiratory droplets. Pneumonia-spreading germs can also spread through touching dirty surfaces and then touching your nose or mouth.  

The contagious period varies depending on the type: 

• Bacterial pneumonia: You’re usually contagious until you’ve been on antibiotics for 48 hours and your fever is gone. 
• Viral pneumonia: Contagious while symptoms (especially fever) are present; may last several days to over a week. 
• Fungal pneumonia: Not contagious 
• Walking pneumonia: The most contagious form; you can spread it 2–4 weeks before symptoms begin and until symptoms resolve. 

How Is Pneumonia Treated? 

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. In many outpatient cases, the exact germ may not be identified, so the focus is on reducing symptoms and preventing complications. 

Common treatment approaches include: 

• Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia. 
• Antifungal medications for fungal infections. 
• Supportive care for viral pneumonia (in some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed). 
• Steroids when lung inflammation is severe. 

Pneumonia Treatment at AFC Athens 

If you’re feeling sick and concerned about pneumonia, our team at AFC Athens is here to help. We diagnose pneumonia by reviewing medical history, conducting a physical exam and utilizing our in-house diagnostic tools (lab testing services and digital X-rays). Once we confirm a diagnosis, we’ll recommend the appropriate treatment, whether that’s antibiotics, antivirals or medications to reduce inflammation. 

You never need an appointment, and we’re open seven days a week for quick, convenient care right when you need it. AFC Athens is reliable and local care you can count on. Visit us any day of the week or save your spot using our online portal!