Pneumonia, Pneumocystis is not typically transmitted through casual contact. It is considered an opportunistic infection, meaning it primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant medications.
Transmission usually occurs through inhalation of airborne cysts (the infectious form of the fungus) present in the environment. These cysts are often found in the respiratory secretions of infected individuals. However, casual contact like sharing utensils, hugging, or being in close proximity to someone with Pneumonia, Pneumocystis does not typically lead to infection.
The risk of transmission is higher in healthcare settings where there is a greater concentration of infected individuals and aerosolized cysts.