Walking pneumonia, also known as atypical pneumonia, is a common respiratory infection. Though generally milder than other forms of the illness, it is transmissible and can spread through close contact. Understanding how it moves between people and the timeline of contagiousness is important for protecting yourself and others. This article details how walking pneumonia spreads and what steps can be taken to minimize risk.
Defining Walking Pneumonia
The term “walking pneumonia” describes a type of lung infection that is typically less severe than classic pneumonia. The name comes from the fact that symptoms are often mild enough for an infected person to remain mobile and continue with daily activities. This condition is most frequently caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The infection inflames the lungs and the airways, but in many cases, it is not severe enough to require hospitalization. Common symptoms include a persistent cough, a mild fever, headache, and fatigue. These symptoms often develop gradually, sometimes over a period of one to three weeks after exposure, and can be mistaken for a lingering cold or bronchitis.
Mechanism of Transmission
The bacteria responsible for this infection, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, spread from person to person through respiratory droplets. These droplets are expelled into the air when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or even talks. Transmission of Mycoplasma pneumoniae requires close and prolonged contact with an infected person. This is why the infection spreads gradually, often moving slowly through environments where people spend extended time together, such as households, schools, and crowded institutions.
Duration of Contagiousness and Isolation
A person with walking pneumonia is contagious and can spread the bacteria even before their symptoms become noticeable. The most infectious period often occurs early in the illness, especially when the person is actively coughing. The contagious period can last for days up to several weeks if the infection is left untreated. However, because Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a type of bacteria, it responds to specific antibiotics. Once an infected person begins an effective course, the risk of transmission decreases significantly. Most people are considered much less contagious within 24 to 48 hours after starting the correct antibiotic treatment. To prevent spread, healthcare providers advise individuals to stay home until they have been on antibiotics for at least two full days and their fever has resolved. A persistent cough may linger for weeks due to airway irritation, but this does not necessarily mean the person is still infectious.
Reducing Risk for Others
Actionable hygiene practices are the most effective way to interrupt the spread of walking pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
- Individuals who are sick should consistently cover their mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze. It is best to use a tissue and dispose of it immediately, or to cough into the upper sleeve or elbow if a tissue is not readily available.
- Frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is necessary to prevent the bacteria from spreading, particularly after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces.
- If soap and water are unavailable, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used as an alternative.
- Disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as doorknobs and counters, can also help reduce the presence of droplets in the environment.
- Additionally, while sick, wearing a mask when in shared indoor spaces can prevent the release of infectious respiratory droplets into the air.