A type of inflammation of the lungs caused by a virus.
Infection of the lung tissue by a virus. Causes of this type of pneumonia include adenoviruses, coxsackie viruses, influenza virus or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Viral infections do not respond to antibiotics and treatment is symptomatic, with antibiotics used only if the patient develops secondary bacterial infection. In a previously healthy individual the viral infection usually gets better without treatment, but in vulnerable patients the elderly or those with pre-existing disease it can be fatal.
Any infections of the lower respiratory tract (the lungs, bronchioles, and trachea) caused by viral species such as adenovirus, coronavirus, herpesviruses, influenza viruses, and respiratory syncytial viruses. Viral pneumonias may range from mild respiratory infections (with nonproductive cough and low-grade fevers) to life threatening and highly contagious illnesses (such as SARS).