Pneumonia
Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases
Pneumonia
Pneumonia (inflammation of the lung) is a serious respiratory condition. Pneumonia can be a complication of other illnesses and can occur throughout the year. Infants and young children who experience common respiratory viruses and are exposed to second-hand tobacco smoke are at increased risk of developing bronchiolitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and middle ear infections.
Cause
Many different viruses, most commonly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza virus, and some bacteria. Most of these viruses or bacteria can cause other illnesses, and not all persons exposed to them will develop pneumonia. Physical and chemical irritants may also cause pneumonia.
Symptoms
May have runny nose, mild cough, and fever several days before developing pneumonia. Rapid breathing, chest pain, cough, and usually fever will occur.
Spread
Viruses and bacteria are spread from person-to-person by touching the secretions from the nose and mouth of an infected person. Spread may also occur by touching the hands, tissues, or other items soiled with nose and mouth secretions from an infected person and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Incubation
Depends upon the germ that is causing the illness.
Contagious Period
From shortly before symptoms begin and while the child feels sick.
Exclusion
Child Care and School: Until fever is gone and the child is well enough to participate in routine activities.
Diagnosis
Recommend parents/guardians call their healthcare provider if their child has a high fever or persistent sore throat or cough.
Treatment
The healthcare provider will decide if treatment is needed.
Do not give aspirin or salicylate-containing medications to any child or adolescent under 18 years of age.
Prevention/Control
- Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing and sneezing or cough/sneeze into your sleeve. Dispose of used tissues.
- Regular and thorough handwashing is the best way to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm running water after touching the secretions from the nose or mouth.
- DO NOT share cups, glasses, or eating utensils.
- Clean and sanitize mouthed objects and surfaces at least daily and when soiled. Clean and sanitize dishes and silverware after each use.
For more information, call the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS) Bureau of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention at 573-751-6113 or 800-392-0272 (24/7), or call your local health department.
Pneumonia Parent Fact Sheet
Your child may have been exposed to:
Pneumonia
Many different viruses and some bacteria can cause pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs).
If you think your child has Pneumonia:
- Tell your child care provider.
- Need to stay home?
Child Care and School:
Yes, until fever is gone and the child is healthy enough for routine activities.
DO NOT give aspirin or salicylate-containing medicines to anyone under 18 years of age.
Symptoms
Your child may have a runny nose, cough, fever, rapid breathing, and chest pain.
Spread
- By sneezing or coughing.
- By touching contaminated hands, surfaces, or objects.
Contagious Period
Shortly before and while your child has symptoms.
Call your Healthcare Provider
- If your child has a high fever or a sore throat or a cough that does not go away.
Antibiotics do not work for illnesses caused by a virus, including colds and certain respiratory infections.
Prevention
- Cover nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing. Use a tissue or your sleeve. Dispose of used tissues.
- Wash hands after touching anything that could be contaminated with the secretions from the mouth or nose. Your child may need help with handwashing.
- Clean and disinfect anything that comes in contact with secretions from the nose or mouth. Use a product that kills bacteria and viruses.
- DO NOT expose your child to second-hand tobacco smoke. Smoke increases the risk for serious respiratory infections and middle ear infections.
For more information, call the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS) Bureau of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention at 573-751-6113 or 800-392-0272 (24/7), or call your local health department.