On their website, the American Lung Association describes pneumonia as a “common lung infection caused by bacteria, a virus or fungi.” They go on to say that pneumonia can vary from mild to severe and “most healthy people recover from pneumonia in one to three weeks, but pneumonia can be life-threatening.” While most infections won’t turn into pneumonia, it is something parents should be aware of.

According to the World Health Organization, pneumonia is the most important cause of children’s death. While this illness should be taken seriously, KidsGrowth.com, a website dedicated to pediatric and adolescent medicine, tells parents not to panic.

KidsGrowth.com says pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, chemical irritants, or foreign bodies and can cause a hacking cough, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle aches and fever.

https://www.empowher.com/pneumonia/content/causes-and-treatment-pneumonia-children