PNEUMONIA: CAUSES/MODE OF TRANSMISSION, SYMPTOMS AND ITS EFFECTS Pneumonia is a serious infection that affects the lungs. It can happen to anyone, but young children, the elderly and people with weak immune systems are at higher risk. WHAT CAUSES PNEUMONIA Pneumonia is usually caused by: 👉 Bacteria (e.g Streptococcus pneumoniae) 👉 Viruses (like the flu or COVID-19) 👉 Fungi (in people with weak immune systems) HOW IS IT SPREAD? Pneumonia can spread through: ☑️ Coughing or sneezing – tiny droplets in the air can carry germs ☑️ Touching surfaces with germs and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes ☑️ Close contact with someone who is infected COMMON SYMPTOMS Watch out for: ➡️ Cough (with or without mucus) ➡️ Fever and chills ➡️ Chest pain (especially when breathing or coughing) ➡️ Shortness of breath ➡️ Fatigue or weakness In children and older adults, symptoms may be different. Babies may feed poorly or breathe fast, and older people might feel confused or very tired. POSSIBLE EFFECTS If not treated early, pneumonia can lead to: 🔘 Difficulty breathing 🔘 Lung damage 🔘 Hospitalization 🔘 In severe cases, it can be life-threatening HOW TO PREVENT PNEUMONIA ✅ Get vaccinated (like the flu shot and pneumonia vaccines) ✅ Wash hands regularly with soap and water ✅ Avoid smoking – it weakens the lungs ✅ Stay away from sick people when possible ✅ Boost your immune system with a healthy diet, rest and exercise If you or someone you know has a cough that won’t go away, high fever or trouble breathing, see a doctor immediately. Stay informed. Stay protected. Follow Runny Medic for more interesting health tips and contents – Your Health, Our Priority #everyone #runnymedic #pneumonia #pneumoniaprevention