Top of the page Pneumonia Pneumonia is a lung infection that can make you very sick. You may cough, run a fever, and have a hard time breathing. It can usually be treated at home, but some people need to go to the hospital. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria or a virus. Antibiotics are used to treat pneumonia caused by bacteria. Current as of: June 9, 2019 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson, MD – Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine & R. Steven Tharratt, MD, FACP, FCCP – Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.