Chest Specialist Delhi | Chest Physician & TB Doctor for Pneumonia

Viral Pneumonia (Flu, Influenza, H1N1, COVID -19)

Viral Pneumonia is a lung infection which is caused by viruses like Influenza, H1N1, or COVID – 19. Unlike bacterial pneumonia, it usually causes less mucus and develops more gradually. These viruses infect the lungs and lead to inflammation in the air sacs, making it harder to breathe and reducing the oxygen entering the blood.

Symptoms of Viral Pneumonia

The symptoms of the Viral Pneumonia include:

Fever and chills
Dry cough (may become wet later)
Headache, sore throat
Muscle and body aches
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Loss of smell or taste (especially in the case of COVID – 19)

Causes of Viral Pneumonia

Influenza virus
H1N1 (Swine flu)
COVID – 19
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
Other seasonal viruses

Diagnosis

It can be diagnosed through:

Chest X-ray or CT scan.
RT-PCR test (for COVID-19, Influenza).
Blood tests (CBC, CRP).
Oxygen saturation levels.

Treatment for Viral Pneumonia

It can be treated through:

By taking rest, fluids, and oxygen (if needed).
Medications for fever and cough.
Antiviral medicines (e.g., oseltamivir for flu, remdesivir for COVID-19).
Hospitalization in severe cases.
Vaccination helps in prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is viral pneumonia contagious?

Yes, it spreads through cough, sneezes or touching infected surfaces.

2. Can antibiotics treat it?

No, antibiotics don’t work on viruses, antivirals may help in that.

3. How long does the recovery take?

It depends upon the case like, mild cases – 1 to 2 weeks, severe cases – longer, especially in elderly or immunocompromised.

4. How can I prevent it?

For prevention you should get annual flu shots, COVID vaccines, wash hands, wear masks, and avoid crowds during outbreaks.