Viral Pneumonia in Children: Signs and Treatment for Viral Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection in the lung. Children and adults both can suffer from this lung inflammatory disease. Pneumonia in children is more common as their immune system is in a developing stage.

Pneumonia in children can be caused by germs such as bacteria, virus, fungi, and different microorganisms.

Viral pneumonia in children is caused by influenza and para- influenza virus, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, vericela pneumonia a complication of chicken pox.

Viral pneumonia in children is more common during winter and spring; the main reason for it is influenza A and B virus strain.

Respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia is more prevalent in spring.

Symptoms of Viral Pneumonia in Children

  • The symptoms are generally insidious in onset and slower in progression. It is preceded by influenza or common cold.
  • Fever.
  • Cough
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Weakness
  • Bodypain.
  • Headache

Diagnosis of Viral Pneumonia

History of the patient, chest X-ray, complete blood count, ESR, swab from nasal secretions will aid in diagnosing the disease.

Treatment of Viral Pneumonia in Children

It is not possible to reliably predict the causative organism from the clinical findings, even by a medical practitioner. An educated guess and diagnostic tests is of greatest therapeutic importance when virus is suspected to be the cause of pneumonia in children.

  • As it is uncertain in preliminary stage to detect the causative organism, your doctor will treat pneumonia with antibiotics.
  • Due to dehydration caused by vomiting and poor appetite, your doctor may advise the child to be hospitalized for proper management.
  • Ample rest and plenty of fluids of essential home care needed for your child.
  • Fruit juices which contain vitamin C aids in healing process.
  • Warm soups and broth can be included in the diet.