Pneumonia Cases Are On the Rise in Kids: How to Keep Them Protected

Aside from the tridemic of illnesses circulating this winter (flu, RSV and COVID), there is another illness that’s on the rise in kids: pneumonia.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posts weekly updates on respiratory viruses from around the world. The CDC has been monitoring cases of pneumonia in China and Europe; as well as data from the National Syndromic Surveillance Program (NSSP), which monitors daily visit data from 78 percent of ERs in the United States.

As of November 25, NSSP data indicated that the weekly percentage of emergency department visits with diagnosed pneumonia was:
1.7 percent for children aged 0–1 years
2.4 percent for children aged 2–4 years
1.5 percent for children aged 5–17 years

These rates are roughly in line with previous years for patients aged 0–1 years and 2–4 years nationally. There is a slight increase for kids ages 5-17. And, the stats are consistent with levels recorded before the COVID pandemic.

Lab findings show that the increase in pediatric pneumonia is likely from viruses and bacteria that typically circulate during this time of year.

CDC, state and local officials will continue to monitor the situation.

The best way to protect yourself and your kids is to talk to your doctor about vaccinations, according to the CDC. For the first time, immunizations are available for flu, COVID and RSV – these illnesses can all cause pneumonia. Pneumococcal vaccines are available for kids and adults to prevent the most common type of bacterial pneumonia. Pertussis (whooping cough) vaccines are available to prevent another common bacterial respiratory infection that can lead to pneumonia.

Other prevention measures include masking if you are in public, washing your hands often (sing “Happy Birthday” to yourself twice), keeping your distance from others who have symptoms, staying in well-ventilated places, and staying home if you feel sick.

A lot of the symptoms are similar between viruses: coughing, sore throat, body aches, fever and shortness of breath. If someone does get sick, you can buy an at-home test for flu or COVID; but you should talk to your doctor about more precise testing, especially for RSV and pneumonia. You may be prescribed an antiviral medication or an antibiotic. And, make sure everyone in your family gets enough sleep.

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