With over 30 different causes of pneumonia, the other main types include:
- Bacterial pneumonia – caused by various bacteria. The most common is Streptococcus pneumoniae. It usually occurs when the body is weakened in some way, such as by illness, poor nutrition, old age, or impaired immunity, and the bacteria are able to work their way into the lungs.
- Mycoplasma pneumonia – this type has somewhat different symptoms and physical signs. Referred to as atypical pneumonia. It is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It generally causes a mild, widespread pneumonia that affects all age groups.
- Other pneumonias – less common pneumonias that may be caused by other infections including fungi.
Although individuals of any age can catch pneumonia, there are certain risk groups that may be at an increased risk of developing the condition.
This includes babies, very young children and elderly people, those with respiratory disease and viral infections. Whereas lifestyle choices, such as a history of alcohol abuse and smoking cigarettes, can put individuals at risk of bacterial pneumonia.
For those who are uncertain whether they have Covid or pneumonia, the NHS recommends seeking a doctor’s advice. This could be using the 111 online Covid service if you have a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell, or seeing your GP in person if you continue to feel unwell.