There are some things that just sound scary based on their name and walking pneumonia is one of them. Pneumonia is a very serious condition that must be treated quickly and properly. However, walking pneumonia is less severe and is actually the least invasive type or pneumonia. It is so mild that many people with walking pneumonia do not even know that they have it. This inability to always notice this type of pneumonia is why this condition has its name.
Here is some more information about walking pneumonia and if it is contagious or not:
What Is Walking Pneumonia?
The name walking pneumonia is not really a medical term. It is simply an easy way to describe a mild form of pneumonia. It is a condition that is the result of an infection within the lungs. Although it is an infection of the lungs it can be caused by many different things. Some of the most common causes are from bacteria, viruses, fungi and chemicals. However, the mild form of walking pneumonia is often caused by bacteria.
Is Walking Pneumonia Contagious?
This type of pneumonia is extremely contagious and there are numerous reasons why. Most people with walking pneumonia do not even know that they have it, which results in them going about their normal activities and coming in contact with many people and things. Individuals of all ages are susceptible to walking pneumonia, but it is more common in older adults.
This infection can be spread through droplets that come from the nose or throat. This means that every time you sneeze or cough with walking pneumonia, you could be spreading this infection to others. The simple fact that most people don’t even know that they have it is why it spreads so quickly.
What Are Common Symptoms?
There are some common symptoms that you can be on the lookout for to alert you that you have walking pneumonia. Once you are exposed, you do not normally show any signs of symptoms for over 2 weeks. Coughing, sore throat, headaches and tiredness are all common symptoms. However, most of these symptoms are really mild and often go unnoticed. Although walking pneumonia is highly contagious, it is also highly mild. This means that even if you are exposed to this condition, you will most likely not have noticeable symptoms. Just maintain general hygiene and you should be able to avoid walking pneumonia.
