Pneumonia is a lung infection that can affect anyone, especially children, the elderly, and individuals with weak immune systems. This disease is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that enter the respiratory tract and infect the lungs.
During the rainy season, the risk of getting pneumonia increases because high humidity facilitates the spread of microorganisms that cause infection. This condition makes it important to maintain the body's immune system and implement preventive measures to avoid this disease.
How is Pneumonia Transmitted?
Pneumonia can spread in several ways, primarily through droplets or saliva from an infected person. Here are some of the main ways it is transmitted:
1. Through Air Splash
One of the most common ways pneumonia spreads is through droplets released when someone coughs or sneezes. These small particles contain viruses or bacteria that can be inhaled by people around them, especially in closed spaces or crowded environments.
2. Touching Contaminated Surfaces
Viruses and bacteria that cause pneumonia can survive on surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, or eating utensils. If someone touches a contaminated object and then touches their face, nose, or mouth without washing their hands first, the risk of infection increases.
3. Through Direct Contact with Sufferers
Close contact with pneumonia sufferers, such as sharing eating utensils or direct contact, can also be a route of transmission. Therefore, maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding close contact with people who are sick is highly recommended.
4. Spread of Other Infections in the Body
Pneumonia can also occur due to an infection in another part of the body that spreads to the lungs through the bloodstream. This condition is more common in people with low immune systems, such as those with chronic illnesses or those undergoing certain medical treatments.
Risk Factors That Increase Susceptibility to Pneumonia
Several conditions can increase a person's risk of developing pneumonia, including:
1. Extreme ages (infants, children, and the elderly are more vulnerable)
Babies, children, and the elderly have immune systems that are not fully developed or are starting to weaken, making it more difficult for their bodies to fight infections, including pneumonia.
2. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
This chronic condition can weaken lung function and the immune system, making sufferers more susceptible to bacterial or viral infections that cause pneumonia.
3. Smoking habit, which weakens the respiratory system
Smoking damages lung tissue and reduces the body's ability to clear mucus and pathogens, increasing the risk of respiratory infections, including pneumonia.
4. Weak immune system, such as in people with HIV/AIDS or people undergoing chemotherapy.
People with low immune systems have a harder time fighting off infections, making it easier for the pathogens that cause pneumonia to develop and cause serious complications.
5. Exposure to air pollution and cigarette smoke, which can irritate the respiratory tract and make infections easier.
Continuously inhaling pollution or cigarette smoke can damage the protective lining of the respiratory tract, increase inflammation, and make the body more susceptible to lung infections.
Preventive Steps to Avoid Pneumonia
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some effective steps to reduce the risk of getting pneumonia:
1. Maintain Hand Hygiene
Wash your hands with soap and running water regularly, especially before eating, after touching objects in public places, or after coughing and sneezing to prevent the spread of infection.
2. Wear a mask when in a crowd
Wearing a mask can reduce the risk of inhaling droplets containing bacteria or viruses that cause pneumonia, especially in public places or when interacting with people who are sick.
3. Maintain Body Immunity
Eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and managing stress well can help increase the body's resistance to infection and maintain optimal health.
4. Pneumonia Vaccination
Pneumococcal and influenza vaccines are recommended for vulnerable groups to protect against serious lung infections and reduce the risk of health complications.
5. Avoid Cigarettes and Air Pollution
Smoking can damage the protective lining of the lungs, making them more susceptible to infection. In addition, avoiding exposure to air pollution can also help maintain respiratory health.
Prevent Pneumonia with the Right Steps
Pneumonia is an infection that can spread quickly through the air, direct contact, or contaminated surfaces. By understanding how it is transmitted and implementing proper preventive measures, the risk of infection can be minimized. Maintaining personal hygiene, wearing a mask in risky environments, and implementing a healthy lifestyle are the main keys to protecting yourself and those around you.
Do not ignore early symptoms, such as prolonged cough, high fever, and shortness of breath, because early treatment can prevent more serious complications. If you experience these complaints, immediately see a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment.
Article written by dr. Herman, Sp.P (Pulmonary and Respiratory Specialist, EMC Sentul Hospital).