Childhood Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a serious infection in the lung that is usually caused by a virus or bacteria. In school-aged children, Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) and Mycoplasma pneumoniae are the most common causes of bacterial pneumonia. Viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus can also cause pneumonia, particularly in younger children. Often, it can be difficult to determine if pneumonia is caused by bacteria or a virus. Bacterial pneumonia may be preceded by viral upper respiratory tract infections. Here, Shah et al discuss the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of pneumonia.