Infectious Diseases

Pulmonary and Chest Infections

Lung infection - affects the lungs, either in the large airways (bronchitis) or in the small air sacs (pneumonia). There is a buildup of pus and fluid (mucus) and the airways become swollen, making it difficult to breathe. Lung infections can affect people of all ages. One of the most common lung infections is called pneumonia. Pneumonia, which affects the small air sacs in the lungs, is most often caused by contagious bacteria, but can also be caused by a virus. A person becomes ill by breathing in the bacteria or virus after an infected person nearby sneezes or coughs.