what causes pneumonia in babies

Pneumonia in babies can be caused by various infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. The most common viral cause of pneumonia in infants is the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) . Other viral causes may include the flu and other respiratory viruses. Bacterial causes of pneumonia in babies can include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), and Mycoplasma pneumonia. Additionally, infants infected with HIV are at risk of developing pneumonia caused by Pneumocystis jiroveci. Its important to note that pre-existing illnesses, such as symptomatic HIV infections and measles, can increase a childs risk of contracting pneumonia. Furthermore, environmental factors such as indoor air pollution can also increase a childs susceptibility to pneumonia. Pneumonia can be spread through various means, including inhalation of viruses and bacteria, airborne droplets from coughs or sneezes, and transmission through blood, especially during and shortly after birth. Proper medical care and preventive measures, such as vaccines, can help protect babies from pneumonia.