Pneumonia Can Have Deadly—And Silent—Effects On Children Too
ST. CHARLES, Mo. — A sudden rise in child pneumonia cases is alarming urgent care centers across the St. Louis region, doctors reported on October 18, 2024. According to Dr. Molly Spire of Total Access Urgent Care, more children are showing symptoms of walking pneumonia, causing parents to become increasingly concerned.
Dr. Spire mentioned that in recent weeks, she has seen an uptick in families rushing their children to urgent care clinics. The primary reason for concern is the high fevers and respiratory difficulties many of these young patients are experiencing. “When fevers reach 103 or 104 degrees, and despite rotating medications like Tylenol and ibuprofen, they remain high, it’s a frightening experience for any parent,” Spire explained. “Add to that shortness of breath, and it becomes even scarier.”
Autumn has typically been the season when respiratory illnesses peak, as viruses such as the cold, flu, and strep spread more quickly in enclosed environments like schools. This year, however, there seems to be an unusual spike in pneumonia cases, particularly in what is referred to as “walking pneumonia,” or atypical pneumonia. The American Lung Association defines walking pneumonia as a milder form of the infection. It usually comes with symptoms like a persistent cough, fever, chest pain, and chills. Though not as severe as traditional pneumonia, it can still be distressing for children and parents alike.
Dr. Spire attributes part of this surge to children returning to classrooms. “When kids are back in school and spending time together, respiratory infections spread more easily,” she noted. As fall progresses, the cooler temperatures may also be playing a role in the increase of cases.
She described what doctors typically hear when they listen to a child’s lungs through a stethoscope. “Sometimes we hear something that sounds like a honking noise, or even crackling sounds, almost like the noise Rice Krispies make.” These sounds are telltale signs of respiratory infection and often prompt immediate action.
Treatment for walking pneumonia varies. In many cases, antibiotics are prescribed to help manage the infection. Parents should be aware, however, that even with treatment, children might experience high fevers and congestion for several days. “It’s not unusual for children to have a fever for three days or even up to a week, depending on the severity of the infection,” said Dr. Spire. “And in some cases, the cough that comes with pneumonia can linger for weeks after the main symptoms have subsided.”
Walking pneumonia can be particularly tricky for parents to manage, as it is often mistaken for a common cold in its early stages. Unlike the flu, which can strike quickly and with more pronounced symptoms, walking pneumonia develops gradually. Children might feel run-down and tired but still be able to go about their daily activities. Unfortunately, by the time more serious symptoms like a high fever and shortness of breath appear, the infection has already taken hold.
Parents have been advised to monitor their children closely, particularly as we move deeper into the respiratory virus season. Signs of pneumonia can include a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and extreme fatigue. If these symptoms appear, it is crucial to seek medical attention quickly.
In addition to seeking treatment, preventive measures are being emphasized. While many families may have relaxed their use of face masks, Dr. Spire suggests reconsidering. “Consider putting that mask back on,” she advised. “We know that masks help prevent the spread of these upper respiratory infections, especially in crowded places like schools and daycares.” The use of masks could help reduce the risk of pneumonia spreading among children, especially those who might already be vulnerable due to underlying health conditions.
As cases continue to rise, urgent care centers around the St. Louis region are preparing for an influx of patients. This spike in pneumonia cases is a reminder of how quickly respiratory illnesses can spread, particularly among children who are in close contact with each other on a daily basis. Families are urged to take precautions and keep an eye on their children’s health as the colder months approach.
Dr. Spire and other local healthcare providers are hopeful that with early detection, treatment, and proper prevention methods, the number of pneumonia cases will start to decline. However, for now, the trend is concerning, and urgent care centers are remaining vigilant.
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