Is pneumonia contagious?

Pneumonia: There are so many types of pneumonia and ways that people get pneumonia that a one size fits all answer here is impossible. Yes, it can be contagious in certain circumstances and in certain individuals. But, in most cases it is not passed on easily in normal social settings.

Most forms - yes.: There are some bacteria and viruses that specialize in causing pneumonia. These are definitely contagious. For older folks or folks that have immune problems/chronic diseases, these patients can get protection with a 'pneumonia shot'. Then there are 'flu' shots that I'm sure you've heard of. Some types of pneumonia don't spread like 'choking on your vomit' - we call that aspiration pneumonia.

Depends: Pneumonia is inflammation of one or both lobes of the lungs. Frequently caused by infection but not always (chemical). Infection may be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungal etc. Sx include chills, fever, productive and or nonproductive sputum, chest pain, SOB. Dx clinically or with chest xray, sometimes labs blood, urine sputum cultures. Medicine depends on cause. Legionella not contagio