A Case of Pneumonia Caused by Pasteurella multocida in an Immunocompetent Indian Male

Pasteurella multocida is a common cause of cutaneous and soft-tissue infections. Cases of primary diseases in the lung result from the inhalation of airborne contaminants from infected nasopharyngeal secretions from pets such as cats and dogs. Clinical presentations due to P. multocida vary from a cough with or without hemoptysis or chest pain to severe debility. This is common in elderly populations with existing pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis. The present case highlights P. multocida pneumonia in an Indian zookeeper with a pet dog who had no underlying lung pathology. This case emphasizes the significance of a detailed history with a physical examination backed by an extensive laboratory workup as the clinical features of P. multocida pneumonia resemble several common bacterial and viral infections.