Final answer:
The four stages of viral pneumonia are incubation period, prodromal stage, infiltration stage, and resolution stage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Viral pneumonia is caused by various viruses, including influenza viruses, parainfluenza viruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, adenoviruses, and the SARS coronavirus. The four stages of viral pneumonia are as follows:
- Incubation period: This is the period from the time of viral exposure to the onset of symptoms. It can vary depending on the specific virus and the individual's immune response.
- Prodromal stage: During this stage, general symptoms like fever, fatigue, cough, and sore throat may appear. The person may not yet have specific signs of pneumonia.
- Infiltration stage: In this stage, the virus spreads to the lower respiratory tract, causing inflammation and damage to the lung tissue. Symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty breathing may become more pronounced.
- Resolution stage: This is the recovery phase where the person's immune system starts eliminating the virus and the respiratory symptoms gradually improve.