Abstract
Respiratory viruses are increasingly recognized as a cause of community-acquired pneumonia
(CAP). The implementation of new diagnostic technologies has facilitated their identification,
especially in vulnerable population such as immunocompromised and elderly patients
and those with severe cases of pneumonia. In terms of severity and outcomes, viral
pneumonia caused by influenza viruses appears similar to that caused by non-influenza
viruses. Although several respiratory viruses may cause CAP, antiviral therapy is
available only in cases of CAP caused by influenza virus or respiratory syncytial
virus. Currently, evidence-based supportive care is key to managing severe viral pneumonia.
We discuss the evidence surrounding epidemiology, diagnosis, management, treatment,
and prevention of viral pneumonia.
Keywords
respiratory viruses - virus - COVID-19 - viral pneumonia - infection