What causes viral pneumonia?
• Many different viruses can cause viral pneumonia. A virus is a type of germ. Examples of viruses that can cause pneumonia include chickenpox, influenza, and RSV. You may get a virus by breathing it in, such as breathing the air around someone who is coughing. You may get a virus from touching something that has a virus on it, such as a dirty tissue. You may get pneumonia from a virus in your own body that travels to the lungs. • You may be more likely to get pneumonia if you have a lung disease such as asthma or emphysema. You are more likely to get pneumonia and other lung infections if you smoke. You have a higher risk of getting pneumonia if you have problems with your immune system. Your immune system helps you fight off illness. Having a long-term medical condition (such as heart failure) may also increase your risk of getting pneumonia. If you have to stay in bed for a long time, such as after an injury or surgery, you have a greater chance of getting pneumonia. Your risk of ge
