Pneumonia is inflammation of lungs caused by infection of bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. It is often a complication of flu. Usually bacterial pneumonia can be cured by antibiotics. But the treatment gets more and more difficult because an increasing number of bacteria strains become resistant to antibiotics. Pneumonia may be life-threatening. If there is persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain and fever (especially continuous high fever above 39C), you should seek medical attention immediately. Treatment depends on the type of pneumonia and its severity. Critically ill patients should be hospitalized and given intravenous antibiotics and oxygen.
How is Pneumonia treated in practice?