ER Visits for Pneumonia Doubled Last Fall Across Canada, CIHI Data Shows

Photo: JEFF

Canada has seen a surprising rise in pneumonia cases, with emergency room visits more than doubling last fall compared to the previous year, according to new data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI). The report shows that children and teenagers, particularly those aged five to 19, were most affected.

Largest Increase in Post-COVID Period

Tanya Khan, CIHI’s manager of hospital data advancement, said this surge is the largest increase in pneumonia-related emergency visits since the COVID-19 pandemic. Pneumonia, which was not among the top ten reasons for visiting the ER in 2023-24, jumped to the third spot in 2024-25, only after abdominal and pelvic pain and throat and chest pain.

Experts suggest that this rise may be linked to a type of pneumonia called “walking pneumonia,” caused by the bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Unlike typical pneumonia, walking pneumonia usually has milder symptoms, such as cough, fever, and fatigue, and many people recover on their own. However, in some cases, it can become serious, leading to rashes or neurological problems, said Dr. Anna Banerji, a pediatric infectious disease specialist in Toronto.

Treatment and Precautions

Unlike regular pneumonia, walking pneumonia does not respond to common antibiotics like amoxicillin. Instead, it requires treatment with macrolide antibiotics, such as azithromycin, clarithromycin, or erythromycin. Parents are advised to take their children to the doctor if cough, fever, or tiredness lasts more than a few days.

Dr. Banerji also highlighted that respiratory illnesses increased after COVID-19 safety measures, such as mask-wearing and social distancing, were relaxed. This includes past surges of viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which caused many hospitalizations in children.

Cyclical Pattern of Walking Pneumonia

Shirley Quach, director of person-centred care at the Lung Health Foundation, explained that walking pneumonia follows a cycle, with infections peaking every three to seven years. While last year may have been the peak, she emphasized the importance of being cautious this fall, especially as schools reopen and people spend more time indoors. Close contact in classrooms and crowded spaces makes it easier for bacteria and viruses to spread through coughing and sneezing.

Emergency Room Data Across Canada

The CIHI report shows dramatic increases in pneumonia-related ER visits across the country. In September 2023, there were 7,542 visits; in September 2024, the number rose to 16,489 — a 119% increase. October visits increased from 10,432 to 24,242, a 132% jump, while November visits rose from 12,774 to 28,308, marking a 122% increase. CIHI estimates that it collected data from at least 89% of emergency departments in Canada, making this a highly reliable report.

What Families Should Know

Health experts remind families that while many cases of walking pneumonia are mild, it is important to watch for persistent symptoms and seek medical care when necessary. Preventive measures like good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when feeling unwell can reduce the risk of spreading pneumonia.

The sudden surge in pneumonia cases is a reminder of how quickly respiratory illnesses can increase, especially in post-COVID times when immunity levels and virus exposure have changed. Parents, schools, and communities are encouraged to stay alert and take precautions to protect children and vulnerable populations from serious illness.

The CIHI data highlights a worrying trend in Canadian health: pneumonia is becoming a major concern once again, particularly among children and teenagers. With proper awareness, timely medical care, and preventive practices, families can help manage the impact of this illness. As the colder months approach and people gather indoors more often, health authorities and parents alike must stay vigilant.