Which type of pneumonia is primarily viral in nature and affects the respiratory system?

Viral pneumonia is characterized by its primary cause being viral infections, which differentiates it from other types of pneumonia that are caused by bacteria, fungi, or aspirated substances. This type of pneumonia is commonly caused by viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronaviruses.

In viral pneumonia, the infection tends to affect the alveoli and the respiratory tissues, leading to inflammation and symptoms like cough, difficulty breathing, and fever. Unlike bacterial pneumonia, which can often be treated with antibiotics, viral pneumonia usually requires supportive care since antiviral medications are not always effective for all viruses.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment, as viral pneumonia typically has a different clinical course and management approach compared to bacterial or fungal pneumonias.