Emergency Visits for Pneumonia Surge in Canada!

In a startling revelation, the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) has reported a dramatic surge in emergency department visits for pneumonia, which more than doubled in the fall compared to the previous year.

Young People Hit Hardest!

The most affected demographic? Young individuals aged 5 to 19, who have seen an unprecedented rise in pneumonia-related visits.

Tanya Khan, CIHI’s Hospital Data Advancement and Engagement Manager, commented, “This is the largest increase in pneumonia-related emergency department visits we’ve observed since the post-COVID era.”

Pneumonia Rises in the Rankings!

While pneumonia didn’t make the top 10 reasons for ER visits in the 2023-24 period, it catapulted to the third spot—right behind abdominal pain and chest pain—in 2024-25.

Walking Pneumonia Takes Center Stage!

Dr. Anna Banerji, a Toronto-based pediatric infectious diseases expert, speculates that this spike reflects a surge in cases of atypical pneumonia, known colloquially as 'walking pneumonia,' especially during last year's respiratory illness season.

Walking pneumonia is generally less severe, causing milder symptoms like cough, fever, and fatigue, with many individuals recovering on their own.

When to Seek Help!

However, complications can arise, leading to severe symptoms, including neurological issues and rashes. Parents are urged to seek medical help if their children experience persistent cough, fever, or fatigue.

Understanding Treatment Options!

Most walking pneumonia cases stem from a bacteria called Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which requires specific antibiotics from the macrolides class instead of the commonly used amoxicillin. Dr. Banerji explained that traditional antibiotics are ineffective against these bacteria due to their unique structure.

What Lies Ahead?

While it’s uncertain whether walking pneumonia will make a significant comeback this fall, the end of COVID-19 precautions has seen a rise in various viruses and bacterial infections.

Shirley Quach from the Lung Health Foundation noted that walking pneumonia cases tend to follow a cyclical pattern, peaking every three to seven years. She warns that heightened respiratory illnesses are typical as people move indoors and children return to school, making it easier for germs to spread.

Staggering Statistics!

The data tells a sobering story: Canada saw 7,542 pneumonia-related ER visits in September 2023, skyrocketing to 16,489 in September 2024—an eye-watering 119% increase! The trend continued in October and November, with increases of 132% and 122%, respectively.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe!

As the cold season approaches, Canadians are encouraged to stay vigilant about respiratory illnesses, ensuring better protection for themselves and their loved ones.