Pneumonia
Also known as: Lung Infection, Chest Infection
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs of one or both lungs, caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.
Symptoms
- Fever with chills
- Cough with phlegm
- Breathlessness
- Chest pain on breathing
Causes
- Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Viruses including influenza
Risk factors
- Young children
- Adults over 65
- Smoking
- Chronic illness
Complications
- Sepsis
- Lung abscess
- Respiratory failure
Treatment overview
Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia, rest, fluids and fever control; severe cases need hospital care.
Prevention
- Pneumococcal and Hib vaccines
- Flu vaccine
- Stop smoking
When to see a doctor
Urgently if breathing is fast or difficult, especially in children and older adults.
Tests used
Vaccines
Specialists who treat it
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of Pneumonia?
Fever with chills, Cough with phlegm, Breathlessness, Chest pain on breathing
What causes Pneumonia?
Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Viruses including influenza
How is Pneumonia treated?
Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia, rest, fluids and fever control; severe cases need hospital care.
How can Pneumonia be prevented?
Pneumococcal and Hib vaccines, Flu vaccine, Stop smoking
Medically reviewed by
Medical review pending
Last updated
9 October 2026
Sources
- World Health Organization fact sheets
- ICMR and MoHFW national guidelines
- National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.