A cluster of ‘white lung’ pneumonia cases in children has been classified as an outbreak in South Western Ohio. Doctors in Warren County say they have seen a surge in respiratory illnesses among children.While health officials are monitoring the situation, no cases have been reported anywhere in Northeast Ohio and local health officials hope to keep it that way.

An Increase, but Isolated for Now

According to Fox 8 News, the Warren County Health District says there have been 142 reported cases of pediatric pneumonia, which is above average. Dr. Ganesh, medical director for the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, says he believes the pediatric pneumonia cases in Southern Ohio are confined to that area right now. But he says just as we learned with COVID-19 and other diseases, people travel around and could spread it to other places.

Dr. Mary Caserta, a pediatrician specializing in infectious diseases, prefers not to use the term ‘white lung’ pneumonia and encourages parents not to be alarmed if they hear it in conversation or on social media.

Dr. Caserta reassures the public that the recent pneumonia uptick isn’t cause for undue concern, attributing the unique respiratory landscape to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The University of Rochester Medical Center Newsroom quotes, “So far, it appears as though the increased number of cases of pneumonia reported in Ohio is due to the usual causes of infection. These infections are occurring this year during the typical time but perhaps at higher numbers due to the decreased cases during the pandemic.”

No Need for Parents to Panic

CDC Director Mandy Cohen also advised parents not to let the online rumors and social media chatter to alarm them. She notes that the Ohio cases have not caused undue strain on the state’s health-care system and the overall respiratory virus trends are typical for this time of year, Cohen said. “Hospital capacity is fine. Children are recovering at home,” she said. “There’s no evidence that any of those increases are connected to other outbreaks nationally or internationally.”

The University of Rochester Medical Center recommends that if you or your child has the flu, the common cold, or other respiratory illnesses, there is a risk of developing pneumonia. While you can always call your primary care provider or pediatrician with concerns, there are a few pneumonia symptoms that indicate infection.

• Fast, difficult breathing
• Persistent cough
• Chest pains
• Loss of appetite
• Severe, shaking chills
• Muscle aches
• Fever
• Tiredness, weakness
• Nausea or vomiting

If you or your child have these symptoms, contact your provider.

If you have already paid a sick visit to the doctor and later notice symptoms are worsening, or a cough is lasting longer than 7 to 10 days, reach out again as you may need to test for pneumonia.