Atypical pneumonia, also known as walking pneumonia, is a milder form of pneumonia that is caused by certain bacteria, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, and Legionella pneumophila. Unlike typical bacterial pneumonia, atypical pneumonia is usually much less severe and may even go unrecognized by the patient.
What Causes Atypical Pneumonia?
Atypical pneumonia is usually caused by bacteria that are not sensitive to antibiotics, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, or Legionella pneumophila. These bacteria can be spread through respiratory droplets, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through contact with an infected person.
What Are the Symptoms of Atypical Pneumonia?
The symptoms of atypical pneumonia typically include a mild fever, headache, cough, chest pain, and fatigue. Symptoms may also include a sore throat, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. Symptoms usually develop slowly over several days and may last for weeks or even months.
Why Is It Called Walking Pneumonia?
Atypical pneumonia is often referred to as walking pneumonia because the symptoms of the illness are usually mild enough that the infected person can still function and may even be able to go about their normal daily activities. In contrast, typical bacterial pneumonia usually causes more severe symptoms that can make it difficult or even impossible for the person to function normally.