The announcement of his hospitalization in early September caused a wave of concern among his fans. At 83, Claude Moine, alias Eddy Mitchell, continues to suffer from pneumonia contracted last fall. This infection forced him to repel the release of his album Amigos And to cancel six concerts scheduled for last summer.
“”It is with a huge regret that I announce this cancellation to you. I was impatient to meet you this summer, but my health has to go above all “explained the singer in March 2024 in a statement transmitted by his press attachés.
His last public appearance dates from February 14, 2025 during the Victoires de la Musique. He had received an honorary award for his entire career. According to Paris Matchhe still fights against a bacteria. If his days are not in danger, his convalescence promises to be long, because he must follow a strict care protocol.
Pneumonia, dreaded pulmonary infection
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can touch the bronchi and cause broncho-pneumonia. This disease spares no one, but its consequences are particularly serious in those over 65.
“”Mortality due to pneumonia varies considerably according to age, the elderly and young children being the most vulnerable. The elderly are the most affected by mortality related to pneumonia. With age, the immune system is weakening, and comorbidities (such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or chronic pulmonary diseases) increase the risk of complications“Explains Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Responsible agents are varied: bacteria, viruses or fungi. “”The most frequently involved germs are pneumococcus, then viruses (influenza, rhinovirus, etc.), especially in the group of community pneumonia“, Detail the pulmonologist Jean-François Bervar in a previous article.
Symptoms, causes and risks of pneumonia
The bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common and most serious cause. “”These are pneumopathies that can kill“, Recalls Dr. Bervar. Other germs like the Legionella pneumophila or the Pneumoniae mycoplasma can also trigger infections, sometimes less severe. “”Overall, these so -called atypical pneumonia are less serious“, he specifies.
Bacterial pneumonia is responsible for mortality of up to 15 %. “This is the leading cause of infectious mortality in developed countries“Underlines the specialist.
Some viruses can also cause pneumonia. Viral forms also exist, often underdiagnosed. Some flu can cause severe pulmonary complications, according to the expert.
What are the most frequent symptoms and treatments?
Fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath or confusion in the elderly are among the most common symptoms.
Early diagnosis and rapid management remain essential to avoid serious complications.
As for treatment, it depends on the origin of the infection. When it comes to bacterial pneumonia, taking antibiotics must be started without delay. Hospitalization becomes necessary in the event of serious signs (consciousness disorders, damage to vital functions, etc.) or if the patient has risk factors such as age over 65 or the presence of chronic diseases. It is estimated that 15 to 20 % of cases of pneumococcal pneumonia require hospital care.
For pneumonies of viral origin, most episodes remain mild and do not require specific treatment, apart from drugs intended to lower fever. A radiological control examination is generally planned three to four weeks after the end of the infection, especially if it was severe.
Certain complications may however appear, such as sepsis, pulmonary abscess or pleurisy. These situations require emergency hospitalization.
To limit the risk of pneumococcal pneumonia, vaccination is recommended in adults over 65, people with chronic pathologies, immunocompromised patients or alcoholics. It must be renewed every five years.