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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Long Does Pneumonia Last?

I need to know how contagious pneumonia of the r. upper lobe is? My friend was started on Omnicef 300 mg. Bid today. He has had antibiotics 3 times in the last 2 months. He was dx. with the above today after a x-ray was taken... He doesn t seem to have a fever-coughs a little still. Very fatigued and is supposed to go back to the Dr. on Monday for a follow-up. He is doing all that he is supposed to do increase fluids--Tylenal for discomfort and take his Omnicef as prescribed..Get plenty of rest...Is my friend contagious? if yes when would it be safe to be with him. I m very succeptible to colds also...
Fri, 14 Sep 2018
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Since he is on antibiotics and they saw something on x-ray, it sounds like he has bacterial pneumonia, which, fortunately, is not very contagious.

Viruses, which typically cause colds or the flu, are much more contagious than bacterial infections, like what your friend has.

While there is still a small chance he could pass it to you, as long as you have a normal immune system, your friend is careful to cover his mouth when he coughs and wash his hands, your risk of getting pneumonia should be very small.

Especially now that he is on antibiotics and is coughing a little, I don't think you need to worry too much about it.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Aaron Branch, General & Family Physician
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How Long Does Pneumonia Last?

Hello, Since he is on antibiotics and they saw something on x-ray, it sounds like he has bacterial pneumonia, which, fortunately, is not very contagious. Viruses, which typically cause colds or the flu, are much more contagious than bacterial infections, like what your friend has. While there is still a small chance he could pass it to you, as long as you have a normal immune system, your friend is careful to cover his mouth when he coughs and wash his hands, your risk of getting pneumonia should be very small. Especially now that he is on antibiotics and is coughing a little, I don t think you need to worry too much about it. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Aaron Branch, General & Family Physician