Pneumonia

What are the main causes of pneumonia?

Viruses that infect your lungs and airways can cause pneumonia. The flu (influenza virus) and the common cold  are the most common causes of viral pneumonia in adults. Respiratory syncytial virus  is the most common cause of viral pneumonia in young children.

What are the first warning signs of pneumonia?

Early symptoms are similar to influenza symptoms: fever, a dry cough, headache, muscle pain, and weakness. Within a day or two, the symptoms typically get worse, with increasing cough, shortness of breath and muscle pain. There may be a high fever and there may be blueness of the lips.