In recent weeks, doctors have reported cases of “walking pneumonia,” a mild but persistent lung infection that can mimic the symptoms of the common cold.

Unlike ordinary pneumonia, which can cause severe lung inflammation and difficulty breathing, walking pneumonia is often less intense, allowing people to continue their daily activities, similarly to the disease in the 1930s. It earned its name.

It’s also called ‘silent’ pneumonia because sometimes people don’t experience symptoms even though fluid-filled air sacs in the lungs are visible on an X-ray, says Dr. Vikas Mittal, pulmonologist, director, Respiratory Medicine. Department, CK Birla Hospital, Punjabi Bagh.

Dr Neetu Jain, a pulmonologist at PSRI Hospital, New Delhi, told IndiaToday.in that such patients may have ‘silent hypoxia’, in which symptoms may or may not be visible, but low oxygen is visible on the pulse oximeter.

What is walking pneumonia?

Walking pneumonia is a type of atypical pneumonia usually caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria. It often presents with symptoms similar to the common cold or mild respiratory infection, including cough, sore throat, mild fever, and fatigue.

Although it may not cause serious illness, it can be disruptive, with symptoms lasting for weeks if not treated.

Although walking pneumonia is generally not as contagious as the flu or a viral cold, it can still spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

This increases the likelihood of transmission in crowded places such as schools, offices and public transport, which may contribute to rising cases in clinics and hospitals across India.

The reason for the sudden increase in cases of mobile pneumonia is unclear, but health experts suggest it may be due to a combination of seasonal changes, rising pollution levels and weakened immune systems.

treatment and prevention

Walking pneumonia can often be controlled with rest, fluids, and, in some cases, antibiotics. However, due to its mild nature, people may not seek medical treatment immediately, which can cause symptoms to last longer and potentially worsen the condition.

If symptoms like cough and fatigue persist for more than a week, doctors recommend seeking medical advice.

Although walking pneumonia may not be as dangerous as more serious respiratory infections, it is important for people experiencing prolonged cold-like symptoms to consult a doctor.