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As we’re in the middle of cold and flu season, many parents have questions about walking pneumonia — is it serious, how does it differ from regular pneumonia, and how can you tell if your child has it? Unlike typical pneumonia, walking pneumonia is a milder form of the illness, often allowing kids to go about their daily activities despite symptoms. Caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, it can mimic a stubborn cold but may linger longer.

To help parents navigate this illness during an already challenging season, we sat down with Dr. Jessica George to address some of the most common questions. From recognizing early symptoms to understanding treatment options and knowing when to see a doctor, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to care for your child with confidence.

What exactly is walking pneumonia, and does it differ from regular pneumonia?
Walking pneumonia refers to a mild form of pneumonia where the patient feels well enough to walk around and participate in their usual activities. In contrast, typical pneumonia causes more severe symptoms like high fever, fatigue, and labored breathing. Walking pneumonia is commonly caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a slow-growing bacteria that causes more gradual symptom onset, making it harder to identify early on.

What are the most common symptoms of walking pneumonia in children? Are there any subtle signs parents should watch for?
The most common symptoms are prolonged cough that can last weeks, fever, fatigue, headache, or sore throat. About 25% of children infected with mycoplasma will develop pneumonia, with the remaining only experiencing cold symptoms that self resolve.

What causes walking pneumonia in kids, and is it contagious?
Walking pneumonia is caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a bacteria that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It is highly contagious, especially in close-contact settings like schools, daycare centers, and households. About 30% of household contacts of an infected individual will also develop pneumonia, making prevention and hygiene practices essential.

How is walking pneumonia diagnosed in children? Are there any specific tests required?
In most cases, your child’s doctor can diagnose pneumonia by listening to your child’s lungs with a stethoscope, listening for crackles or wheezing. If symptoms are more severe or persistent, a chest X-ray may be ordered to check for lung inflammation or other signs of infection.

What treatment options are typically recommended for walking pneumonia? Are antibiotics always necessary?
Walking pneumonia can be a self-resolving illness; however, depending on the severity of your child’s symptoms, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics. Along with antibiotics, supportive care, such as using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and ensuring rest, can help ease symptoms and speed up recovery.

How long does it usually take for a child to recover from walking pneumonia?
While fever and fatigue typically improve within a few days of starting antibiotics, the cough often lingers. It’s normal for the cough to persist for 4-6 weeks, even with treatment, as the lungs continue to heal.

Are there any specific activities or routines a child should avoid during recovery to prevent complications?
As with any recovery, children should be encouraged to listen to their bodies in terms of returning to physical activity. Parents should watch for their child becoming short of breath during play, and enforcing rest when appropriate. A humidifier can also help symptoms of cough and congestion during these dry winter months.

What if walking pneumonia is left untreated?
As with any respiratory illness, parents should look for signs of worsening illness, for example fast breathing, or breathing with grunting or wheezing, labored breathing where the muscles between the ribs retract, significant loss of appetite, or prolonged high fever.

What can parents do to reduce the risk of their child developing walking pneumonia, especially during cold and flu season?
Hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs, including those that cause walking pneumonia. Teach children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, scrubbing all parts of their hands. Make it part of their daily routine, especially before meals, after using the restroom, and after school or playdates.

Good cough hygiene is just as important. Encourage children to cough or sneeze into their elbow instead of their hands, reducing the spread of respiratory droplets. Parents can set an example by practicing these habits themselves, promoting a family-wide approach to health and hygiene.