What organisms are Responsible?

About 90% of cases of acute bronchitis are caused by viruses, including rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses, metapneumovirus, parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza. Also, About 10% of cases are caused by bacteria, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Bordetella pertussis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae.

How is it Transmitted? Whilst the organisms that cause bronchitis are not directly transmitted, they will infect the mucus in the lungs during the course of another infection such as pneumonia, a common cold or influenza. Also, smoke inhalation can sometimes induce the infection of the mucus in the lungs, causing the disease.

Prevention and Treatment Common Symptoms associated with Bronchitis The most common signs that indicate a possible infection are: Persistent coughing (an attempt to expel the pathogens from the lungs) Sore throat, Shortness of breath, Runny nose, Nasal congestion (coryza) How long does it last for? Acute Bronchitis is commonly only found to last between 7 and 12 days when treated with antibiotics, however it can in some cases last for to 4 weeks if the infection is left untreated and the body is required to fend for itself. Whilst Acute bronchitis has not yet caused a recorded death, over 30,000 people die worldwide every year from chronic bronchitis, a very different infection. As Bronchitis is often caused by influenza,it is important to keep yourself vaccinated against the flu with the flu vaccine which changes once a year in order to stay ahead of mutating pathogens. Also, the WHO advises that you wash your hands regulary and avoid all types of smoking, most especially cigarette (tobacco) smoking. Treatment will usually consist of antibiotics such as amoxicillin, azithromycin, clarithromycin, doxycycline and erythromycin.