Pneumonia in Children: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Parents Should Know

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection in children, leading to inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli), which fill with pus or fluid, causing cough, fever and breathing difficulties. It remains a leading cause of morbidity in children under five globally, especially in developing countries.

Understanding pneumonia's causes, symptoms and when to seek medical help is crucial for every parent.

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.

The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, leading to difficulty in breathing, cough with phlegm and fever. In young children, pneumonia can progress rapidly and become life-threatening if untreated.

Types of Pneumonia in Children

1. Bacterial Pneumonia:

• Often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.

• Symptoms tend to develop quickly with high fever, rapid breathing and chest retractions.

2. Viral Pneumonia:

• Commonly caused by RSV, influenza and parainfluenza viruses.

• Symptoms develop gradually with wheezing and cough.

3. Mycoplasma Pneumonia (Walking Pneumonia):

• Often seen in older children.

• Milder symptoms with persistent dry cough and fatigue.

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes

• Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).

• Viruses: RSV, influenza, adenovirus.

• Fungi: Rare, but possible in immunocompromised children.

Risk Factors

• Age under 5 years

• Malnutrition

• Incomplete immunization

• Pre-existing illnesses (asthma, heart disease)

• Exposure to smoke or air pollution

Signs and Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children

Watch for:

• Fast breathing (above 50 breaths/min for 6–12 months, above 40 for 1–5 years)

• Chest indrawing

• Fever and chills

• Persistent cough

• Lethargy or irritability

• Difficulty feeding (in infants)

• Bluish lips or fingertips (cyanosis)

Seek medical attention immediately if your child shows labored breathing or bluish discoloration.

How Is Pneumonia Diagnosed?

Doctors may diagnose pneumonia through:

• Clinical examination (listening for crackles or decreased breath sounds)

• Pulse oximetry (checking oxygen levels)

• Chest X-ray (to confirm consolidation)

• Blood tests (to assess infection severity)

Treatment of Pneumonia in Children

Treatment depends on the cause and severity:

• Bacterial pneumonia: Requires antibiotics (amoxicillin is often first-line).

• Viral pneumonia: Supportive care with hydration, rest and fever management.

• Hospitalization may be necessary for severe cases requiring oxygen or IV fluids.

Never use over-the-counter cough suppressants without consulting your pediatrician, as they may worsen breathing difficulties.

Preventing Pneumonia in Children

1. Vaccination:

• PCV (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine)

• Hib vaccine

• Influenza vaccine

• Measles vaccine

2. Good hygiene: Frequent handwashing.

3. Breastfeeding: Boosts immunity in infants.

4. Avoid smoke exposure.

5. Good nutrition to strengthen immune defense.

When Should Parents Seek Medical Help?

Seek immediate care if your child:

• Breathes very rapidly or with effort

• Has chest retractions or nasal flaring

• Has bluish lips or fingertips

• Is unable to drink or breastfeed

• Has seizures or becomes unconscious

Early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications.

Key Takeaways for Parents

• Pneumonia is preventable and treatable, but can be life-threatening if ignored.

• Vaccination, nutrition, and smoke-free environments reduce risks.

• Seek prompt medical care when breathing difficulties or worsening symptoms occur.

References

1. World Health Organization. Pneumonia Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/pneumonia

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Pneumonia in Children. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/pneumonia/about/index.html

3. American Academy of Pediatrics. Red Book: 2024–2027 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases.