Viral Pneumonia Causes

Viral pneumonia can be caused by influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the herpes or varicella viruses, including those that cause the common cold (parainfluenza and adenoviruses).

• Influenza A and B usually occur in the winter and spring. In addition to the respiratory symptoms, you can get headache, fever, and muscle aches. Your chance of catching the flu falls a lot (but is not totally prevented) if you get a "flu shot" every year.

• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is most common in the spring. It usually infects children and can cause outbreaks in daycare centers.

• Herpes or varicella pneumonia are rare unless you are infected with chickenpox.

• Adenovirus and parainfluenza viral pneumonias are often accompanied by cold symptoms such as runny nose and pinkeye (conjunctivitis).

• Although the specific pathogen responsible for SARS has not been identified as of March 19, 2003, a viral etiology is believed to be responsible.