What is the difference between COVID-19 pneumonia and regular pneumonia?

Pneumonia can be caused by various microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses or fungi.

COVID-19 pneumonia is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is a viral pneumonia that can result from infection with COVID-19. COVID-19 can lead to a severe form of pneumonia, especially in people with underlying health conditions or older adults.

Common pneumonia is caused by a variety of microorganisms. Bacterial pneumonia is often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or other bacteria. Viral pneumonia can be caused by viruses such as influenza (flu) or adenovirus.

COVID-19 pneumonia can lead to a gradual lung infection with symptoms such as fever, dry cough, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Lung damage from COVID-19 can lead to bilateral infiltrates or "ground-glass opacities" on a CT scan of the chest. This pneumonia will often lead to oxygen deficiency and difficulty breathing.

Bacterial pneumonia can progress more rapidly than viral pneumonia and can lead to increased production of mucus and purulent discharge. Lung damage and imaging vary depending on the type of bacteria and the location of the infection.

Source: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_3

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-03 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024