This editorial discusses the future directions of diagnoses and the treatment strategies of several types of pneumonia. At first, the unionization of many existing pneumonia guidelines and the development of this new guideline peculiar to Japan in accordance with the Japanese medical system was required. For example, to distinguish infections caused by bacterial pneumonia and pneumonia caused by atypical pathogens, several important criteria have been demonstrated. During the treatments of pneumonia in elderly persons, who have high death rates, it is required that a choice of appropriate therapeutic methods be made only after understanding the conditions of patients. Moreover, it is necessary also to maintain the prevention of pneumonia by using the Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccine. To exactly evaluate the frequency of causative pathogens of pneumonia, the attending physicians should establish examinations for antigens, such as the quick diagnosis kit of influenza. The multiplex PCR system may soon be applied to determine causative pathogens. Lastly, establishing treatment to control a cytokine storm that will improve the convalescence of severe pneumonia is necessary.