What should you know about viral pneumonia?

The illness may follow a viral infection such as influenza or COVID-19, although several viruses can affect the lungs. Symptoms can include cough, fever, chills, tiredness, chest discomfort and breathlessness. Some people cough up phlegm. A clinician may listen to your chest and use your symptoms, examination and tests to distinguish pneumonia from a milder respiratory infection.

Rest, drink fluids if you can, and take medicines recommended for fever or discomfort according to the label and your medical advice. Keep monitoring your breathing and ability to drink. Avoid smoking and reduce close contact with others while you may be infectious. People with long-term lung or heart conditions, older adults and those with weakened immunity may need earlier assessment.

Contact a clinician promptly if fever persists, breathing becomes harder, chest pain develops, you become unusually drowsy, or you cannot keep fluids down. Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse or rapidly worsening illness. A serious infection can sometimes affect the whole body and require urgent treatment.

Ask which virus may be involved, whether you need chest imaging or other tests, how to monitor breathing at home, and when you can safely return to normal activities. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, chronic conditions and regular medicines.