
The infection is spread from person to person when tiny water droplets, containing bacteria, become airborne. This bacterium also causes chest colds and bronchitis in adults. The most common among school-aged children is Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Walking pneumonia in children is mostly caused by bacteria. It is most commonly spread in crowded places, such as schools. Share on Pinterest Walking pneumonia is an infection that may be spread via tiny water droplets in the air. These tests are more likely to be required if the symptoms get worse. Often, the mild symptoms caused by walking pneumonia do not warrant X-rays or laboratory tests. Sputum is the substance that is coughed up from the lungs. A blood test and sputum culture test will sometimes be done. DiagnosisĪ doctor will often be able to diagnose pneumonia from a child’s symptoms, taking a medical history, and doing a physical examination.Ī chest X-ray may be required to rule out other chest infections with similar symptoms. Other symptoms that need immediate medical attention include shortness of breath and chest pain. 100.4☏ in an infant under 6 months of age.They should speak to a doctor if the child’s temperature goes above: It is important to see a doctor if the symptoms in a child with walking pneumonia become worse over time.Ĭaregivers should take the child’s temperature if they are fussing, uncomfortable, or feel warm. Medical attention should be sought in this case. Share on Pinterest A high temperature may be an indication of an infection such as walking pneumonia. Encephalitis, which causes swelling in the brain, can develop on rare occasions. Complications may include a more serious bout of pneumonia that requires bed rest or hospitalization.

Walking pneumonia is usually a mild illness, but it can develop into something else. Walking pneumonia symptoms can take between a week and a month to clear up but may last for as long as 6 weeks. These symptoms may appear anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks after exposure to a virus or bacteria. rapid or difficult breathing and wheezing.Symptoms can also resemble a flare-up of an existing lung condition that is marked by breathlessness, such as asthma.Ĭommon symptoms of walking pneumonia include a cough and a low-grade fever, usually no higher than 101☏, coupled with general feelings of tiredness and a headache.Ĭhildren with walking pneumonia may also have some of the following symptoms: The symptoms of pneumonia can be very similar to those of other chest infections, such as bronchiolitis, although bronchiolitis usually affects younger children. This is why the condition is called “walking” pneumonia.

People with walking pneumonia often think that they have a cold.ĭespite feeling tired or run-down, children usually think they are well enough to continue with daily activities, including going to school. Share on Pinterest The symptoms of walking penumonia may not appear severe at first, so the child may feel like continuing with their usual activities.
