Hello and thank you for sending your question. This is a very good question. Treatment for pneumonia Can be done several different ways. You are correct that there are longer durations of treatment. The Zithromax which you were provided is a five-day treatment but the medication will actually continue to work in your system for several additional days. Recovery from pneumonia can take several weeks or even months. Sometimes additional medications might be provided such as inhalers to help your airways function more efficiently as your lungs recover. It is usually recommended that a repeat chest x-ray is done at a month after your treatment. You might discuss this with your primary doctor. Recovery from pneumonia can take several weeks. In your case it might be a little Longer than average but I am optimistic that you will make a full recovery. I would encourage you to continue to be very active and exercise as much as you can tolerate. Continue a well-balanced diet as well. Thanks again for sending your question. Dr. Galamaga