Information on Pneumonia Awareness: 5 Facts, 5 Myths, and 5 Tips Every Parent Should Know

Pneumonia -a leading cause of illness and death, especially among children under 5. Every 43 seconds, a child dies from this preventable and treatable illness, claiming over 725,000 young lives globally each year.

On this World Pneumonia Day, Southwest Urgent Care in Telfair, Sugar Land, is here to share vital information to help you recognize, prevent, and manage pneumonia, with a special focus on services available at our clinic. Understanding the facts, busting myths, and adopting effective prevention tips can help you keep your family safe and healthy.

5 Things to Know About Pneumonia This Pneumonia Day

It’s the Leading Infectious Killer of Children Under 5
Pneumonia claims over 725,000 young lives each year, with one child dying every 43 seconds from this preventable disease.
Vaccines Help Prevent It
Vaccines like pneumococcal and Hib are crucial defenses. Southwest Urgent Care offers vaccines to help protect your family.
Early Diagnosis is Key
Symptoms like cough, fever, and difficulty breathing need prompt attention. Our pediatric care team is ready to assist with evaluation.
Lab Tests and X-Rays Aid in Diagnosis
On-Site X-ray and Lab Testing at Southwest Urgent Care can quickly diagnose pneumonia for fast, effective treatment.
It’s Preventable and Treatable
With the right care, most cases of pneumonia are treatable, especially when diagnosed early.

5 Facts About Pneumonia

Pneumonia is Caused by Bacteria, Viruses, and Fungi:
Pneumonia can be caused by several pathogens, including bacteria, viruses (viral pneumonia), and fungi. Each type of pneumonia requires different treatment approaches, so a thorough diagnosis is essential to determine the best course of care.
Children and Elderly Are Most at Risk
Those with weaker immune systems, like young children and seniors, are more vulnerable.
Vaccination Reduces Risk Significantly
Vaccines like PCV13 and Hib protect against common pneumonia-causing pathogens.
Pneumonia May Follow Other Illnesses
After colds or flu, pneumonia can develop as a secondary infection, especially if symptoms linger.
Good Hygiene Helps Prevent Spread
Simple practices like regular handwashing can lower the risk of respiratory infections, including pneumonia.

Bonus Section: Symptoms of Pneumonia You Should Know

Pneumonia can develop quickly, and recognizing the signs early can help prevent serious complications. If you or your child experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible:

Coughing, which may produce mucus or phlegm
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chest pain, especially when breathing or coughing
High fever and chills
Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
Nausea and vomiting, particularly in children
Rapid breathing or heartbeat, especially in young children

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a healthcare professional. At Southwest Urgent Care, our team is ready to provide a thorough evaluation, and we offer X-ray and lab testing on-site to confirm a diagnosis.

5 Myths About Pneumonia

“Only the Elderly Get Pneumonia”
False—children are especially vulnerable to pneumonia, especially those under age 5.
“You Can Only Get Pneumonia in Cold Weather”
Pneumonia can strike year-round, though respiratory illnesses may increase in winter.
“If You Have a Cough, You Have Pneumonia”
Not all coughs are pneumonia, but persistent coughing should be evaluated to rule it out.
“Antibiotics Cure All Types of Pneumonia”
Only bacterial pneumonia responds to antibiotics; viral types need other treatments.
“Pneumonia Always Requires Hospitalization”
Many cases can be managed with outpatient care, such as that provided by Southwest Urgent Care.

5 Tips for Preventing Pneumonia

Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccines
Ensure children and adults receive recommended vaccines, available at Southwest Urgent Care.
Practice Good Hygiene
Frequent handwashing reduces the spread of germs that can lead to respiratory infections.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking weakens the lungs, making them more susceptible to infections like pneumonia.
Seek Prompt Medical Care for Respiratory Symptoms
Early intervention can prevent mild infections from progressing into pneumonia.
Get Regular Health Check-Ups Regular visits help catch health issues early, and our team at Southwest Urgent Care is here to help keep your family healthy.

As Temperatures Drop, Protect Your Family from Pneumonia in Houston and Surrounding Areas

With winter weather approaching in Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, Telfair, Richmond, Stafford, and nearby communities, it’s vital to stay on top of pneumonia prevention and respiratory health. With the season changing, be mindful of Viral Pneumonia symptoms!

Timely medical care is key, and at Southwest Urgent Care Telfair Sugar Land, we offer both in-person consultations (with on-site X-rays and lab tests to diagnose pneumonia early) and convenient telemedicine services, allowing you to receive expert care from the comfort of your home, wherever you are, ensuring a safe and healthy winter for your family.

Did you know? Southwest Urgent Care Telfair – Sugar Land offers Pediatric Services, Vaccines, X-rays, and On-Site Lab Tests, Onsite Nebulization, Fever Management—all designed to support early diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia and other illnesses.

Visit us today to keep your family protected!