Is Pneumonia Contagious? What Nigerians Should Know During Rainy Season
Due to some of the serious raining season illnesses such as pneumonia which can be severe in certain cases, some Nigerians tend to ask the question, Is pneumonia contagious?
To answer this question, there’s a need to first understand what it is pneumonia ? the common pneumonia symptoms, the causes, those at risk of having pneumonia in Nigeria, when to seek medical help, and more.
So, if you are breathing, take your time to read through till the end because you will not just be saving your life but also that of others.
What is Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a life-threatening infection that happens when germs like viruses, bacteria, or fungi enter the lungs and cause the air sacs inside the lungs, also known as alveoli, to become swollen.
These air sacs can be filled with fluid or pus, making it hard for the lungs to work properly which makes breathing difficult.
Where one lung is affected, it is called single or unilateral pneumonia and for both lungs it is known as double or bilateral pneumonia.
Pneumonia in Nigeria has been gradually put under check due to the different approach the medical experts have been able to offer through early immunization, educational sessions to parents, and many more.
Causes of Pneumonia
As earlier stated, pneumonia which remains one of the top raining season illnesses, is caused by different types of germs such as viruses, fungi, bacteria, or foreign substances.
Its effects depend largely on a person’s health status, age, environment, and immune status.
Understanding these causes is important not only to help you to prevent it, but will also help with early detection, and proper treatment.
Listed below are the some of the main causes of pneumonia
- Bacterial
These are the most common causes of pneumonia in adults. They may occur on their own or develop after a cold or the flu.
Bacterial agents include:
Mycoplasma causes a milder form referred to as “walking pneumonia.” It spreads in a crowded setting such as schools, camp grounds, and more.
Streptococcus is the commonest bacterial cause of pneumonia. It usually follows a cold.
Legionella causes legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. It finds its way into the body system through contaminated water systems.
2. Viruses
These are the main cause of pneumonia in children below the age of 5, adults with a very weak immune system, and aged adults. Some examples of these viruses are respiratory syncytial virus, coronaviruses, adenovirus, Influenza virus (flu), and parainfluenza virus.
Pneumonia caused by viruses can result in bacterial pneumonia and this happens where the lungs become more unguarded after a viral infection.
3. Fungal
This category is not as common as that of viruses and bacteria but can be very severe when they occur. Examples includes Histoplasma capsulatum, coccidioides, pneumocystis jiroveci, cryptococcus
They are common in people with;
- Weakened immune systems
- Long-term use of chemotherapy or steroids.
- Organ transplant
- HIV/AIDS
Other causes of Pneumonia includes;
4. Aspiration Pneumonia
Accidentally inhaling of external substances remains one of the causes of pneumonia in Nigeria.
This kind occurs when a person accidentally inhales substances like drink, saliva, or food.Instead of these substances going into the stomach, they enter the lungs, carrying bacteria that lead to infection.
Individuals that are often victims of this are;
- Aged adults
- Stroke patients
- People with swallowing disorders
- Intoxicated individuals
5. Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia
This can occur during a hospital stay especially in those in intensive care units and patients using breathing machines. It is usually caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, like pseudomonas aeruginosa. .
It’s dangerous and more difficult to treat due to a patient’s already weakened state.
Victims of this type of pneumonia usually require serious medical care
How Does Pneumonia Spread
Pneumonia itself is not contagious, however the viruses and bacteria that cause it can be spread from person to person.
The spread can occur through some of the following.
- Droplets
The commonest way pneumonia in Nigeria spreads is through inhaling droplets from an infected person. This can happen when the victim talks, coughs, or sneezes.
The droplets may contain viruses or bacteria that, once inhaled, will result in pneumonia, especially in infants and individuals with a weak immune system.
- Surface Contact
Having direct contact with a surface contaminated with pneumonia-causing pathogens without washing the exposed part before using it to touch the mouth or nose, can result in the spread.
- Airborne Particles
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia that spreads when people inhale tiny water droplets from contaminated sources like, hot tubs, showers, or air conditioning systems.
- Aspiration
This involves inhaling substances like saliva, food, or drink into the lungs.
When you realize you begin to feel unwell after a recent exposure to one or more of these factors, it is wise to seek a medical attention immediately so any can be diagnosed and treated quickly.
Symptoms of Pneumonia
Pneumonia symptoms depend largely on the cause, age, and overall health of the person. Although the common signs include:
- Persistent cough
- Fever and Chills
- Shortness of Breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest Pain
- Sharp pain that worsens with deep coughing or breaths.
- Fatigue
- Loss of Appetite
- Confusion
- Fast breathing and heart rate
- Bluish Lips or Fingernails
Never hesitate to reach out to healthcare providers when you notice any of these pneumonia symptoms.
Treatment for Pneumonia
Treatment of pneumonia in Nigeria depends largely on the cause, age, severity of the condition, and overall health of the patient.
The different categories of treatment are;
1. Medical Treatment
The types of treatment administered under this category includes the use of antibiotics such as ceftriaxone, amoxicillin, or azithromycin depending on the age of the patient, and type pneumonia infection.
Other treatments used are antiviral medications like oseltamivir, and antifungal drugs such as fluconazole. Fever and pain relief medications like paracetamol will reduce fever and body aches. Cough supplements are helpful to clear mucus from the lungs.
Oxygen therapy is an option for patients finding it difficult to breathe or suffer low oxygen levels.
2. Supportive Care
No matter the cause of the infection, support from friends and family will help to speed up recovery.
3.Rest
Adequate rest is necessary to allow the medications work effectively and also helps the body to fight the infection and conserve energy.
4. Hydration
.Drinking plenty of water helps to thin the mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up and clear from the airways.
5.Healthy Nutrition
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet strengthens the body’s immune system, improving its ability to fight off infections. Consuming healthy foods constantly helps to maintain overall well-being and resilience against future infections.
6.Avoid Smoking
Smoking causes damage to the lungs which can worsen respiratory conditions. This reduces the ability of the lungs to fight off infections, slowing down the healing process.
Continued smoking can also lead to severe symptoms and a higher risk of complications.
7.Hospitalization
An individual may require hospital admission if they:
- Show signs of complications
- Are very young or elderly
- Have severe symptoms
- Have chronic health conditions
Final Thoughts
Although pneumonia is a serious respiratory, yet it is treatable most especially when diagnosed early. With proper medical care, support, and rest most people recover fully.
However, it is more important to prevent it rather than seeking a cure and the best way to do so is by getting vaccinated, avoiding smoking, and practicing good hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pneumonia
These are some of the questions people ask about Pneumonia
1. What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes air sacs in the lungs to swell resulting from fluid or pus that is contained in it leading to symptoms like fever, cough, fever, difficulty in breathing, and chest pain.
2. What Causes Pneumonia?
The main causes of pneumonia includes;
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Fungi
- Aspiration
3. Is Pneumonia Contagious?
Pneumonia in itself is not contagious but the bacteria can transfer it from person to person through sneezes, coughs, or close contact with an infected person.
4. What Are The Common Symptoms of Pneumonia?
- Persistent cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Sweating
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Loss of appetite
5. How Can Pneumonia Be Diagnosed?
Medical often diagnose pneumonia through;
- Sputum (mucus) tests
- Listening to the lungs using a stethoscope
- A physical exam
- Blood tests
- Chest X-ray
- Pulse oximetry (to check the oxygen levels)
6. Can Pneumonia Go Away Without Treatment?
Yes, some types of pneumonia like
viral pneumonia may clear up without medication, but other types like bacteria will require proper medical treatment to prevent complications.
7. Who Is Most At Risk For Pneumonia?
- Infants
- Aged Adults
- People with other chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease.
- People with weak immune systems as a result of cancer, HIV, or transplant.
8.How Long Does It Take For A Patient To Recover From Pneumonia?
Recovery from pneumonia can take up to 4 weeks or more, depending on the severity of the person’s age, and general health.
9. How Can Pneumonia Be Prevented?
To prevent pneumonia,
- Get vaccinated
- Practice healthy hygiene
- Avoid smoking
- Good nutrition
- Regular exercise
- Avoid close contact with sick people
