17th February 2025

Other viral respiratory infections

Varicella

In the UK, most people are exposed to varicella in childhood (chickenpox), and pneumonia is rare. However, it is a more significant complication of infection in adults, particularly those who are pregnant. Treatment is with aciclovir.

Human metapneumovirus

Human metapneumovirus is a seasonal virus which usually causes a mild, self-limiting upper respiratory tract infection. Treatment is supportive, although antibiotics may be indicated with superadded bacterial infections.

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

This is caused by the MERS coronavirus and is found in the Middle East, especially Saudi Arabia. Due to the large risk to public health, isolation precautions and contact tracing are fundamental. Mortality is around 35%. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the most serious complication and has reasonable prevalence. Diagnosis is via PCR and treatment is supportive.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

RSV is a common cause of bronchiolitis in children. In adults, it nearly always causes an indolent upper respiratory tract infection, but in the clinically vulnerable it can progress to pneumonia. Treatment is supportive only.