New York, NY – Cases of infections caused by a bacteria often associated with “walking pneumonia” have been increasing this year, particularly in young children, according to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This milder form of lung infection, known as walking pneumonia, exhibits symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and low-grade fever. With the onset of colder weather and holiday gatherings, the conditions are ripe for the spread of viruses and infections.
Unlike regular pneumonia, walking pneumonia allows individuals to continue their daily activities, hence the name “walking” pneumonia. It is essential to differentiate between walking pneumonia, COVID, flu, and other respiratory infections in order to receive appropriate treatment. While the general advice for being sick may remain the same (stay home and limit contact), identifying the specific cause of illness is crucial for targeted treatment, such as antivirals for viruses and antibiotics for bacterial infections.
Symptoms of walking pneumonia, COVID, and flu may overlap, making it challenging to distinguish between them. Seeking medical attention is recommended for persistent symptoms or if there is an underlying health condition that could complicate the illness. Both COVID and flu can lead to severe complications in high-risk groups, like older adults and individuals with certain medical conditions, emphasizing the importance of taking precautions and seeking timely medical care.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is another common virus that can cause mild symptoms in adults but can be severe in young babies and older individuals. Vaccines are now available to protect older adults and pregnant individuals, as well as some infants through monoclonal antibodies. Differentiating between allergy symptoms and viral infections can be tricky, but certain clues such as fever, itching, and specific symptoms can help in making a distinction.
Testing for COVID and flu, either at home or in a healthcare setting, can provide clarity on the cause of illness. Antiviral medications like Paxlovid are available for treating COVID, while treatments for flu and allergies vary based on symptoms. Allergy management may involve over-the-counter medications like antihistamines or decongestants, with options like steroid nasal sprays to prevent symptoms before they occur. Seeking medical advice and exploring testing options may be necessary for severe or persistent symptoms related to allergies or viral infections.