Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung tissue caused by viruses or bacteria. When recognized early, most children recover completely with outpatient treatment; this is why knowing the warning signs is so valuable.

Symptoms

  • Fever (usually high and persistent in bacterial pneumonia)
  • Cough, phlegm
  • Fast breathing — one of the most important findings
  • Pulling in of the spaces between the ribs and flaring of the nostrils while breathing
  • Fatigue, loss of appetite; refusal to feed in babies
  • Sometimes abdominal pain and vomiting (especially in lower-lobe pneumonia)

What Does Fast Breathing Rate Mean?

Count the child's breaths for one full minute while they are calm or asleep: ≥60 breaths/minute under 2 months, ≥50 between 2–12 months, and ≥40 between 1–5 years is considered fast and requires examination.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis is made through examination and, when needed, a chest X-ray and blood tests (complete blood count). While supportive care is sufficient for viral pneumonia, antibiotics are started for bacterial pneumonia. Completing the full course of antibiotics and not stopping early is critically important. Young infants, children who need oxygen, and those unable to take fluids are monitored in the hospital.

Prevention

  • The PCV (conjugate pneumococcal) vaccine is part of the national immunization schedule
  • The annual flu vaccine reduces the risk of secondary pneumonia
  • An environment free of cigarette smoke, hand hygiene, breast milk

📅 Book an online appointment for your child: Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş — appointment page

Related articles: Bronchitis in children · High fever · Vaccination schedule

This article is for general information purposes only; it is not a substitute for diagnosis and treatment. For any concerns about your child's health, be sure to consult a pediatric health and diseases specialist.

Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş — Specialist in Pediatric Health and Diseases, Gaziantep