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CDC sees increase in ‘walking pneumonia’ cases among children

Harry November 1, 2024

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT) – Doctors see an increase in the number of children suffering from the disease “walking pneumonia” and cases may continue to rise.

As the cold months approach, the number of respiratory diseases in children increases. This year, doctors are reporting an increase in cases of “walking pneumonia.”

“There are more cold viruses going around. And so you may have some kids who may develop pneumonia secondary to cold viruses that start out benign, but just those kids are struggling to get better,” said Dr. Grant Saxton, a pediatrician at South Central Regional Medical Center (SCRMC).

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that the number of children ages two to four suffering from “walking pneumonia” has increased from 1% to 7% in the past six months. Saxton said it’s a mild form of pneumonia.

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“It’s called that because you can still work, you can still move around. You’re not bedridden, you feel really bad. And so it kind of has a milder intensity,” he explained.

It is important to consult a doctor if your child has symptoms of shortness of breath or fever that lasts for more than three days.

“Sometimes we find things that concern us on a lung exam, or we can help disconnect with a chest X-ray to make sure the lung areas are completely clear,” Saxton said.

“Walking pneumonia” can be treated with antibiotics followed by over-the-counter medications.

“Preliminary treatment will be antibiotics. We may have different antibiotics like azithromycin. These are called the MAC version. So antibiotics are the first line of treatment. But it’s also important that they stay hydrated and get plenty of rest,” says Dr. Andrew Clark, a pharmacist at Northtown Pharmacy in Jackson. .

The best defense against “walking pneumonia” is hand washing and practicing good hygiene.

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