
Pneumonia:
Pneumonia, an infection of the air spaces and surrounding lung tissue, is the sixth leading cause of death, and the primary cause of death from infectious disease, in the United States. Hundreds of different microorganisms can infect the lungs, but most cases of pneumonia are caused by viruses or bacteria.
Viral pneumonia, which accounts for about half of all cases, is most often a complication of influenza.
Articles on Pneumonia:
- Living with Lung Disorders Alert: Why a Shorter Course of Antibiotics for Pneumonia Makes Sense
Living with Lung Disorders Alert: Pneumonia -- Symptoms and Treatment Vary Depending on the Cause
More on Pneumonia:
Lung Disorders Glossary
The information in the Lung Disorders area is based on our monthly newsletter, Johns Hopkins Health After 50, and our annual Johns Hopkins White Paper: Lung Disorders.
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