Is walking pneumonia contagious? If so, how is it spread and who is most at risk?

Is walking pneumonia contagious? If so, how is it spread and who is most at risk?

Yes, walking pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae is contagious (spread through person-to-person contact). When an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the bacteria become airborne and can be inhaled by others who are nearby.

The infection can be easily spread in crowded or shared living spaces such as homes, schools, dormitories and nursing homes. It tends to affect younger adults and school-aged children more than older adults.

The risk of getting more severe pneumonia is even higher among those who have existing respiratory conditions such as:

• Asthma
• Emphysema
• Congestive obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• A weakened immune system