Pneumonia causes more than one million hospitalizations and more than 50,000 deaths each year, according to the American Lung Association. Pneumonia is more common in winter months because people gather indoors, where germs are more easily spread.

Here are key facts to know about pneumonia, according to The StayWell Company, LLC:

• Pneumonia is an infection of one or both lungs caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.
• Anyone can get it. But those at highest risk include children younger than age 2, adults 65 and older, people who smoke and people with certain health conditions.
• The most common symptom is a cough that makes green, yellow or bloody mucus. Other symptoms include fever, shaking chills, shortness of breath, low energy and extreme tiredness.
• Pneumonia can often be diagnosed with a health history and physical exam. Tests include those that look at the lungs, blood tests and tests done on the sputum you cough up.
• Most people with pneumonia respond well to treatment, but pneumonia can cause serious lung and infection problems. It can even be deadly.
• The risk of getting COVID-19 viral pneumonia can be reduced by washing your hands frequently, avoiding large crowds, staying 6 feet away from people who don’t live in your immediate household and wearing a mask. Stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines.
• Ask your healthcare provider if you are due for any other vaccines, such as the flu or pneumonia shot.

The American Lung Association recommends good health habits that can help prevent you from becoming ill and, if you do become ill, can lead to a faster recovery. These include washing your hands, following a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and not smoking.