Children's Hospital Colorado

Pneumonia in Children

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What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs that develops in people who have a viral, bacterial or fungal infection.

Pneumonia in children often begins after they’ve caught a respiratory virus such as adenovirus, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or parainfluenza virus.

Who gets pneumonia?

Anyone can get pneumonia. The viruses and bacteria that cause pneumonia are contagious. They spread easily by sneezing, coughing or contact with contaminated surfaces (like shared drinking glasses, used tissues, doorknobs and faucets). However, getting infected with a virus or bacteria from someone with pneumonia does not necessarily mean that the infection will develop into pneumonia.

Children who are more likely to get pneumonia include:

  • Children with chronic illnesses, such as heart or lung disorders
  • Children with asthma
  • Infants born prematurely
  • Children with a compromised immune system

Get to know our pediatric experts.

Christina Papantonakis, MD

Christina Papantonakis, MD

Pulmonology - Pediatric, Pediatrics

Edith Zemanick, MD

Edith Zemanick, MD

Pulmonology - Pediatric

Patient ratings and reviews are not available Why?

Paul Houin, MD

Paul Houin, MD

Pulmonology - Pediatric, Pediatrics

Kim Pierce, CPNP-PC

Kim Pierce, CPNP-PC

Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Patient ratings and reviews are not available Why?