Pneumonia is an inflammation or infection in one or both of the lungs which can happen to people at any age, from tiny babies to really old people. In children too, it is caused by an infection from bacteria or a virus. Often a cold or flu that gets worse can turn into pneumonia. That's because the cold or flu will irritate the lungs, creating an environment where it's easier for pneumonia germs to move in and start an infection. Due to the infection, the small airways in the lungs become swollen and make more sticky fluid (mucous). This blocks the airways and reduces the amount of oxygen getting into the body.

Pneumonia can affect one part (lobe) of the lung or the entire lung. It is an infection of the lungs that is accompanied by a cough and difficulty breathing. But a cough only is unlikely to be pneumonia if not having any difficulty of breathing.

The symptoms of pneumonia can vary depending on the child’s age, overall health and whether it's caused by a virus or bacteria. With bacterial pneumonia, a kid might feel sick suddenly and have a high fever with chills. The viral kind of pneumonia might happen more slowly and take longer to go away. Either way, it has a feel as having flu with a cough, fever, headache, sometimes belly pain, chest pain, breathing difficulty and vomiting. Also the child may become more tired than usual and may refuse to eat during the sickness. Sometimes a fever alone can be a symptom. A mild infection of the respiratory tract which becomes worse all of a sudden may lead to pneumonia.

A child having pneumonia will need to rest and drink small amounts of fluid often. Most children recover from pneumonia quickly and completely, with the right treatment. Children who get pneumonia, more than once in a single year, may have a problem with their immune system. Therefore maintaining a good hygiene and resting well is very important to prevent from getting pneumonia.

Although mild cases can be treated at home, severe cases may require hospitalization. Therefore it is wise to discuss the child’s health with a physician for proper diagnosis and physical examination of the child, if any such symptoms exist.

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