When Is Pneumonia No Longer Contagious ?

Pneumonia is caused due to microorganisms like fungi, bacteria, virus, parasites and mycoplasma. It leads to inflammation of one or both the lungs producing flu like symptoms in the affected individual. The person finds it very difficult to breathe and often complains of intense chest pain while breathing. Chills, fever, headache, abdominal pain, wheezing, lethargy and congestion of lungs are observed.

People suffering from reduced immunity, children and the elderly are generally affected. Antibiotics are administered to treat the condition. The dosage and the frequency depends on the severity of the condition, the age of the affected individual and his/her immunity level.

If bacteria are the causative organism for pneumonia, an oral antibiotic would be sufficient to kill the microorganism. In severe cases, intravenous fluids might have to be administered to the person to restore the fluid balance in the body. It is necessary to bring the body temperature back to normal.

In extreme cases, the person might find it extremely difficult to breathe and will require an external supply of oxygen to keep him/her alive. In some cases, there might be extra accumulation of fluid within the lungs leading to a condition called emphysema. In such cases, the fluid will have to be surgically drained out of the lungs. Viral pneumonia will not require any specific treatment. It will subside over time.

Prompt treatment and correct prescription of antibiotics will get the situation under control in a week’s time. Within two days of antibiotic treatment, the microorganism’s virulence will fade out, making the person non-contagious. However, extra precaution and care is essential to prevent any type of complication.

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Pneumonia is a severe respiratory disease caused due to inflammation of lung tissue. A bacterium, Streptococcus pneumoniae is responsible for causing pneumonia in nearly 50 percent of the reported cases. Other reasons for inflammation include viral attacks, parasitic infestations and fungal attacks. These microorganisms travel in air through microscopic droplets. More..