Overview

Walking pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by the mycoplasma bacteria. This form of pneumonia is usually mild and feels like a chest cold, but it can get worse. The symptoms of cough, headache, and a low fever start slowly. The infection is usually so mild that your child may walk around with it without knowing they have it. Most children don't get sick enough to be in the hospital. It is more common in younger people.

Walking pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics.

Your child's cough may last for a few weeks after the infection has been treated. They may have some wheezing too. These symptoms will go away over time.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think your child is having a problem with the medicines.
• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Ask your doctor if you can give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for fever or fussiness. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 18. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
• Be careful with cough and cold medicines. Don't give them to children younger than 6, because they don't work for children that age and can even be harmful. For children 6 and older, always follow all the instructions carefully. Make sure you know how much medicine to give and how long to use it. And use the dosing device if one is included.
• Make sure your child rests. Keep your child at home if they have a fever.
• Keep your child away from smoke. Do not smoke or allow anyone else to smoke in your house.