Walking pneumonia cases on the rise

GLASGOW, Ky.- As weather patterns continue to change dramatically, health experts are sounding the alarm about the rise of pneumonia cases, particularly a common variant known as walking pneumonia. This condition often presents with symptoms similar to a cold, making it easy to overlook.

We spoke with Beth Brookes, a pediatrician at T.J. Samson Health, who highlighted the increasing prevalence of walking pneumonia, especially among children.

“Absolutely. This year we are seeing a ton of what we call walking pneumonia, especially in kids,” she said.

While walking pneumonia is typically self-limiting, Brookes cautioned that some individuals may experience more severe symptoms.

Prevention remains key, and health officials stress that the measures for avoiding walking pneumonia mirror those for any cough or cold.

Regular handwashing, staying away from sick individuals and maintaining overall health can significantly reduce the risk. As the weather keeps changing, staying vigilant about respiratory health is more important than ever.