Definition

     Viral pneumonia is an inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the lungs caused by infection with a virus. See also respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza.

Causes

     Viral pneumonia is caused by one of several viruses, including influenza, parainfluenza, adenovirus, rhinovirus, herpes simplex virus, respiratory syncytial virus, hantavirus, and cytomegalovirus.

Symptoms 

• Cough

• Headache

• Muscular stiffness and aching

• Shortness of breath

• Fever

• Chills

• Sweating

• Fatigue

• Sore throat

     Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• Clammy skin

• Nausea and vomiting

• Joint stiffness

Screening and Diagnostics

• Sputum culture

• Blood tests for antibodies to specific viruses

• Chest x-ray

• Bronchoscopy

• Open lung biopsy (only done in very serious illnesses when the diagnosis cannot be made from other sources)

Treatment 

     Antibiotics are not effective in treating viral pneumonia. Some of the more serious forms can be treated with antiviral medications. Other supportive care for viral pneumonia includes use of humidified air, increased fluids, and oxygen.. Hospitalization may be necessary to prevent dehydration and to help with breathing if the infection is serious.

Complications 

     More serious infections can result in respiratory failure, liver failure, and heart failure. Sometimes, bacterial infections occur during or just after viral pneumonia, which may lead to more serious forms of pneumonia.

Prevention

     Vaccines are available for influenza virus and respiratory syncytial virus for people at high risk of these forms of viral pneumonia.