Viral Pneumonia: Symptoms & Signs

Medically Reviewed on 10/19/2020

Viral pneumonia is the infection of lung tissue by viruses.

Signs and symptoms of viral pneumonia can vary in severity. These can include

Other associated symptoms can include

In severe cases, blueness of the lips and nails may occur.

Causes of viral pneumonia

Many different viruses can cause pneumonia. Examples include influenza virus, coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV-2), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), herpesviruses, rhinoviruses, and others. About 30% of all cases of pneumonia are believed to be caused by viral infections. The infections spread through droplets of fluid that scatter in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Other viral pneumonia

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References
Jameson, J. Larry, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 20th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.