What should you know about most common cause of bacterial pneumonia?

Bacteria can reach the small airways and air sacs, where inflammation and fluid make oxygen exchange harder. Bacterial pneumonia may follow a viral illness such as influenza or occur after inhaling secretions. Older adults, young children and people with long-term lung or immune conditions may become unwell more quickly.

A cough, fever, chills, chest discomfort and coughing up phlegm can occur, but symptoms do not identify the germ by themselves. A clinician may use an examination and selected tests to decide whether bacterial treatment is appropriate.

Arrange medical assessment if fever, cough or breathlessness is worsening or interfering with normal activity. Rest, drink fluids if you can, and use only medicines suitable for you. Antibiotics help bacterial infections but do not treat viral illnesses such as COVID-19 or influenza; take them exactly as prescribed and complete the prescribed course.

Get urgent help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, inability to keep fluids down or rapidly worsening weakness. A serious infection can spread beyond the lungs and lead to sepsis.

Ask whether your symptoms fit pneumonia, whether testing is needed, how to take any antibiotic, and which changes should prompt urgent review. Mention recent viral illness, hospital care, travel and your regular medicines.