Cases of “walking pneumonia,” a respiratory infection caused by bacteria that can harm the throat and lungs, are on the rise this season, particularly among children.

Walking pneumonia is common and typically milder than pneumonia, but it is still highly contagious and should not be ignored. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says there are about 2 million cases of walking pneumonia every year in the United States during an average year.

People with pneumonia caused by M. pneumoniae may seem healthier than expected and may not stay home in bed. That’s why the illness is known as “walking pneumonia.” Typical symptoms and treatment are the same for a mild cold, but some cases can be severe.

Spot the symptoms

The most common way that walking pneumonia occurs is through a mild and manageable chest cold. Contact a physician anytime you or a loved one have difficulty breathing or other persistent or worsening symptoms.

Common symptoms include cough, fatigue, fever and chills, sore throat, or shortness of breath.

Left untreated, walking pneumonia can escalate from mild to severe illness. Uncommon but severe complications of walking pneumonia can cause or worsen asthma, kidney damage, skin disorders, or brain swelling (encephalitis).

Treatment and prevention

Walking pneumonia typically goes away when treated with rest, hydration and other remedies similar to the way anyone manages a common cold, although symptoms may last for a few weeks. Antibiotics may be prescribed by a physician if symptoms are severe or persistent.

There’s no vaccine specifically for walking pneumonia. However, it is important for caretakers and children to get vaccines to protect against flu, COVID, RSV, and other forms of pneumonia. It is not too late to make sure everyone is up-to-date with their vaccinations as directed by a physician.

The usual protections against seasonal respiratory illness can help prevent the spread of walking pneumonia. These include handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes.