Debunking 6 common myths about pneumonia in adults

Myth: Pneumonia is only viral.

Fact: Viral and bacterial pneumonia are the most common types of pneumonia.

Viral pneumonia is typically caused by respiratory viruses like the flu, SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or human metapneumovirus (HMPV). If you have viral pneumonia, you’re also at risk for developing bacterial pneumonia as a complication.

The most common type of bacterial pneumonia is called pneumococcal pneumonia, which occurs when the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae causes a lung infection. Pneumococcal pneumonia can be a serious illness.

Myth: Cold weather causes pneumonia.

Fact: Cold weather doesn’t cause pneumonia — viruses and bacteria do. Pneumonia can be a concern year round, especially for those at increased risk.

Myth: Only elderly people get pneumonia.

Fact: It’s true that adults 50 years of age and older are particularly at risk, but people of all ages can get pneumonia.

Pneumonia risk factors for people of all ages include medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease and HIV.

Myth: Pneumonia isn’t contagious.

Fact: The viruses and bacteria that cause pneumonia are contagious. People who are infected can spread the virus or bacteria through the air when they cough, sneeze or talk. People who have the virus or the bacteria in their respiratory tract, but have no symptoms, can pass it on to others.

People can occasionally catch pneumonia by touching something that has the virus or bacteria on it and then touching their noses or mouths.

Myth: Pneumonia’s only symptom is a cough.

Fact: Cough is a common symptom, but pneumonia can present differently in people based on a variety of factors. Other symptoms include:

• Fever
• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Chills
• Rapid breathing
• Chest pains
• Confusion
• Loss of appetite

Older adults with pneumonia may even have a lower-than-normal temperature and, at times, sudden changes in mental awareness. For those with chronic lung conditions, pneumonia may exacerbate existing symptoms. Sometimes, pneumonia symptoms can be mild, making it more difficult to diagnose.

Myth: Pneumonia isn’t serious.

Fact: Pneumonia can cause serious illness, such as respiratory failure, fluid or pus in or around the lungs and sepsis. These complications can be life-threatening.