Walking Pneumonia Surging Among Louisiana Kids – What to Know

When the pages of the calendar flip over to reveal November it's a sure sign, at least on paper, that the weather will be getting cooler in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, New Orleans, and Shreveport. Cooler weather is always welcomed in Louisiana, especially after the long, hot, dry, summer we've just experienced. However, there is a drawback.

When the weather gets cooler that's usually a sure sign that the cold and flu season is upon us. At your local pharmacy or doctor's office, they are offering the "new" flu shot for this season. You can also get a COVID vaccination if you're so inclined. And while the flu and COVID certainly grab the headlines there is another medical malady that has raised enough concern to prompt an alert from the CDC.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta is cautioning parents to be especially mindful of the symptoms of walking pneumonia. Cases of the disease have been on the uptick since April and May for all ages but the past few months have shown a troublesome spike in the cases among kids ages 5 to 17.

What Are The Symptoms of Walking Pneumonia?

The symptoms of the disease are very similar to the symptoms one might experience with a common chest cold. The symptoms of Walking Pneumonia are described as "a cough, feeling tired, fever and chills, and shortness of breath". The only difference between the published symptoms for Walking Pneumonia and a common chest cold is a sore throat and headache.

Why Is It Called Walking Pneumonia?

The short answer is that those who are infected with the disease feel bad but usually don't feel bad enough to stay at home and in bed. This is where the disease can be very troubling. We've learned over the past few years how diseases can spread from one person to another. A sick person who doesn't know they are sick or "doesn't feel that bad" might continue to go to class or work thereby creating the potential for spreading the disease.

The best way to prevent the spread of Walking Pneumonia is to stay at home if you're not feeling well and make sure you're washing your hands on a regular basis. Your standard cough and sneeze protocols should be observed as well.

How Long Does Walking Pneumonia Last?

The disease can run its course in a matter of days or sometimes it takes over a month for symptoms to clear. The cough associated with the disease can last long after the patient has improved. Some coughs that are associated with Walking Pneumonia could linger several months after treatment.

What Is The Treatment for Walking Pneumonia?

In many cases, a patient with the disease will be prescribed antibiotics because the malady is caused by bacteria. Those who are prescribed these meds need to take the full course of treatment. Even if you are feeling better don't stop taking the antibiotics until your doctor gives you the all-clear.

For other symptom relief such as sinus issues, coughing, and congestion over-the-counter remedies will usually do the trick. It is also suggested that those suffering from Walking Pneumonia stay hydrated, use a humidifier, or take long showers or baths to help break up the congestion in the chest.

For the most part, the disease is mild and does not require hospitalization but some cases could require a more aggressive treatment protocol.