Did you know? 

Pneumonia is more common in people with Down syndrome.

Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. When people with Down syndrome get pneumonia, they have a greater risk of having a severe case and/or requiring hospitalization. Things that can be done to avoid getting pneumonia are practicing healthy habits (such as handwashing) and getting vaccines to prevent infection by some of the bacteria and viruses that can cause pneumonia. More research on pneumonia in people with Down syndrome is needed. An article reviewing what is currently known about pneumonia and Down syndrome was recently published in the American Journal of Medical Genetics: Part A. Dr. Chicoine, the medical director of our Center, is one of the authors. The abstract of the article can be viewed at this link. There is a cost to view the full text of the article. We recommend checking with your local library to see if they have a subscription to the medical journal.