Have you heard of walking pneumonia? Here’s what our team has to say about this respiratory infection & who to contact for same-day care. 

Between completing your Christmas shopping, family dinners at Parker’s Restaurant, or attending your weekly karaoke night at Cold Creek, you don’t always have time to slow down when you’re feeling under the weather. But when a cough lingers longer than it should (or starts affecting your breathing), it may be more than just a seasonal illness. One common culprit? Walking pneumonia. 

Here’s what you need to know about this very contagious (and surprisingly common) respiratory infection. 

Visit AFC Dalton today! 

First, What Is Pneumonia? 

Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. When germs enter the tiny air sacs of your lungs, your immune system responds by creating inflammation. That swelling leads to fluid or pus buildup, which blocks airways and makes it harder to breathe normally. 

A few quick facts: 

• Pneumonia can affect one or both lungs. 
• It’s categorized by the type of germ causing the infection. 
• Treatment varies from person to person depending on severity and cause. 

Types of Pneumonia 

Pneumonia is grouped based on the pathogen: 

Bacterial pneumonia 

• The most common and often more severe. 
• Sometimes requires hospitalization, especially for those with weakened immune systems. 
• May lead to related infections like ear infections, sinus infections or meningitis. 

Viral pneumonia 

• Often resembles a severe cold or flu. 
• Caused by viruses like the flu, common cold, RSV or COVID-19. 

Fungal pneumonia 

• Less common 
• More likely to affect immunocompromised individuals. 

So, What Is Walking Pneumonia? 

Walking pneumonia is a milder form of pneumonia, generally caused by either bacteria or viruses. Many people compare it to a stubborn chest cold. 

A few important points: 

• More than two million cases occur each year. 
• Common in school-aged children and adults under 40, but anyone can get it. 
• Symptoms are mild, so most people keep going about their daily routine. This is dangerous due its highly contagious nature. 
• Many people recover on their own without prescription medication. 

Even though it won’t confine you to your bed, recovery can take time. Some people experience a lingering cough for weeks or even months. 

Symptoms of Pneumonia 

Symptoms vary widely depending on the type of pneumonia and your overall health. Those at higher risk include young children, adults over 65, people with lung or heart conditions, smokers, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems. 

Common symptoms include: 

• High fever 
• Cough with yellow, green or bloody mucus 
• Fatigue 
• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath 
• Chest or abdominal pain (especially with coughing or deep breathing) 
• Sweating or chills 
• Headaches and body aches 

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice bluish skin, lips or nails. This may indicate cyanosis, a potentially life-threatening condition. 

Is Walking Pneumonia Contagious? 

The short answer – walking pneumonia is the most contagious form of pneumonia. 

According to the American Lung Association, the pneumonia infection itself isn’t contagious, but the viruses and bacteria that cause it can easily spread. Walking pneumonia is especially contagious because symptoms are so mild that many people don’t realize they’re sick. You can spread the bacteria 2–4 weeks before symptoms appear and continue spreading it until symptoms fully resolve (which can take several weeks). 

How Pneumonia Spreads 

Whether you have pneumonia or walking pneumonia, these germs all spread the same way. They are often carried through the air by: 

• Respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or talking. 
• Touching surfaces contaminated with germs and then touching your mouth or nose.

You can be exposed to pneumonia-causing germs without developing pneumonia yourself. On the other hand, you can also pass them to others, even when you feel perfectly fine. 

How to Help Prevent Pneumonia 

Simple everyday habits can make a big difference: 

• Stay home when you’re sick 
• Wash your hands often 
• Avoid touching your face 
• Cover coughs and sneezes 
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces 
• Avoid smoking 

When Is Professional Treatment Needed? 

If you’ve been dealing with a persistent cough, fatigue or trouble breathing, our providers at AFC Dalton are here to help. We’re here to help you manage symptoms or offer guidance on over-the-counter solutions.  

We diagnose pneumonia by: 

• Reviewing your symptoms and medical history 
• Conducting a physical exam 
• Running tests like bloodwork or chest X-rays 

Once diagnosed, treatment may include: 

• Antibiotics 
• Antivirals 
• Steroids for significant inflammation 
• Symptom-focused care to help you feel better faster 

Walk into our clinic whenever you need reliable and affordable care. We’re open seven days a week, and you never have to schedule an appointment. Get care close to home.