Did you know pneumonia shares some symptoms with the common cold and is often mistaken as "just a bad cold?" However, pneumonia is more severe and can be life-threatening in some cases. It is an infection in one or both lungs, making it difficult for the person to breathe, along with other severe symptoms. There are many other common myths about this respiratory illness, which we have debunked in this blog. World Pneumonia Day, which falls on November 12, is a reminder that pneumonia can affect anyone and lead to death if left untreated.
Myth vs. facts - Pneumonia
Myth 1: Pneumonia is nothing more than a bad cold.
Fact: Pneumonia is unlike your common cold, though some symptoms are similar. The common cold is a viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract and does not require urgent treatment. Pneumonia, on the other hand, is an infection of the lungs. A person with pneumonia has difficulty breathing, fever, chills, and cough with phlegm. It can become severe and, in some cases, cause death, especially among children and people with low immunity.
Myth 2: Pneumonia is contagious.
Fact: Several types of pneumonia exist, but not all types are contagious. Bacterial and viral pneumonia are contagious, and their transmission occurs through airborne droplets. Viral pneumonia is more common compared to the other types. Fungal pneumonia, aspiration pneumonia (caused by inhaling food, liquid or vomit), or chemical pneumonia (caused by inhaling toxic substances) are not contagious.
Myth 3: Pneumonia affects only older people.
Fact: Pneumonia can strike anyone, regardless of age. Anyone can develop pneumonia, though older people, children, and those with chronic health conditions are at greater risk due to low immunity. Healthy people can also develop pneumonia, especially after a flu or respiratory illness or if they are exposed to toxic chemicals, smoking, or pollution for long periods.
Myth 4: Bronchitis and pneumonia are the same.
Fact: Bronchitis and pneumonia are different illnesses. Pneumonia is more severe than bronchitis. Bronchitis is an inflammation or infection of the bronchial tubes or airways that bring air to the lungs, whereas pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, making breathing difficult.
Myth 5: Vaccines cause pneumonia.
Fact: Pneumococcal vaccines do not cause pneumonia. Vaccines help prevent the infection and reduce the risk of severe pneumonia. Hence, pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for children, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions because of weak immunity. Like with other vaccines, the pneumonia vaccine may have mild side effects.
Health insurance for pneumonia
Most health insurance plans cover respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia. In some cases, pneumonia can lead to complications, requiring hospitalisation. Having a comprehensive health insurance plan will ensure you are financially prepared for such medical emergencies.
Conclusion
World Pneumonia Day is observed to spread awareness and educate people about the treatment and misconceptions associated with this lung disease. If you experience any pneumonia-related symptoms, consult a healthcare provider immediately.