Can Accidental Exposure To Powdered Probiotics Cause Pneumonia?

Posted on Tue, 21 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 22 Jul 2015 Answered on

Tue, 11 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello. I recently started adding powdered probiotics to my son's bottles. Today when i was fixing his bottle, i accidentally inhaled some through my nose. I attached a list of ingredients and bacteria that this powder contains. Am i at risk for developing pneumonia from this?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Less chance to get pneumonia with only one exposure episode...

Detailed Answer:
Hi my dear,

I understand your concerns.

You are reporting to have an episode of accidentally inhaling powdered probiotics of your son. In such cases, I advise my patients to:
- wash the nose with thorough water frequently during the day
- take deep breathing of fresh air

Only one episode won't cause pneumonia. If repeated constantly, and if you do not breathe fresh air, that will be a cause to pneumonia.

Hope it put your mind at peace! Let me know if you have other concerns!
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar