Pneumonia Specialist Doctor In Mumbai Pneumonia is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The clinical presentation varies, ranging from mild pneumonia characterized by fever and productive cough to severe pneumonia characterized by respiratory distress. Community – acquired pneumonia (CAP) refers to an acute infection of the lung acquired outside of the hospital. CAP is one of the most common conditions encountered in clinical practice. The risk of CAP rises with age and annual incidence increases exponentially in those, who are above 65 years of age. The comorbidities associated with an increased incidence of CAP include pre existing chronic lung conditions, underlying heart conditions and diabetes mellitus. Viral respiratory tract infections can lead to primary viral pneumonias and also predispose to secondary bacterial pneumonia. This is most pronounced for influenza virus infection. Smoking and alcohol overuse are key modifiable behavioral risk factors for CAP. Streptococcus pneumoniae and respiratory viruses are the most frequently detected pathogens in patients with CAP. SARS – CoV – 2 is an important cause of CAP and should always be suspected in the current scenario. The respiratory pathogens are transmitted from person to person via droplets or, less commonly via aerosol inhalation. Cough with or without sputum production , breathlessness, and chest pain are among the most common symptoms associated with CAP. The great majority of patients with CAP present with fever. Other systemic symptoms such as chills, fatigue, malaise, chest pain and loss of appetite are also common. The antibiotic therapy should be initiated at the earliest under supervision of a specialist as delays in appropriate treatment have been associated with increased mortality. The three primary pillars for the prevention of CAP are : smoking cessation, influenza vaccination for all patients and pneumococcal vaccination for at risk patients. Hence guidance from a specialist is paramount for suggestion regarding proper preventive vaccinations against CAP.