Preschool-aged children with CAP (community acquired pneumonia) frequently do not require antibiotics, as most disease is caused by viral infections. Children with suspected CAP of bacterial origin should usually receive amoxicillin for outpatient treatment, or ampicillin or penicillin G for inpatient treatment. These agents have sufficient activity against the common bacterial pathogens causing CAP without being unnecessarily broad. Third-generation cephalosporins should be reserved for children who are unimmunized or with severe infection, or where there are high rates of penicillin-resistance among invasive pneumococcal isolates. Additional agents may be indicated in cases of suspected staphylococcal pneumonia, atypical pathogens, or influenza.
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