In answer to the question of whether or not the grandson
can transmit a viral  pneumonia to his grandmother with
COPD. 

The simple answer is yes, he can transmit the virus to
his grandmother.  People most at risk for contracting a
viral pneumonia are the elderly, and  those who are
taking immune supressant drug therapy, in this case
steroids  associated with the management of COPD.

Common viral pneumonias are caused by influenza,
parainfluenza, RSV, and  Respiratory adenoviruses. Such
Viral pneumonias are transmitted via droplets  which are
coughed, or sneezed into the air or by contaminated
hands and/or  objects. (South Dakota Department of
Health, 2007).

Viral pneumonia begins at a cellular level as the virus
begins to compromise  the integrity of the alveolar
epithelial cell disrupting the tenuous balance  between
the the alveolar airspace and the capillary blood flow.
With this  balance disrupted fluid is allowed seep in to
the alveolar space compromising  systemic gas exchange.
If allowed to persist death can occur in a matter of 
days. 

The grandmother in our case study is especially at risk
due to her age,  preexisting lung disease, and probable
steroid use. 

Simple precautions that can be taken are frequent and
diligent hand washing,  avoiding his grandmother until
the symptoms resolve. Diet and exercise play  a role in
the prevention and limitation of pneumonias. For example
foods  high in antioxidants and rich in nutrients play a
role in supporting the  immune system. Deep breathing,
coughing and activity help to limit and  prevent
atelectasis form developing in the lungs and creating
and  environment amenable to a pneumonia viral or
otherwise. Occasionally  vaccines are available and
should be taken by those at a higher risk, such as  our
case study grandmother.  there is much more information
available when the virus is identified, and  how fast
and severe the symptoms have progressed.

Thanks,

Joanna, Lorna, & Andria



Health cares. net. Pneumonia prevention and Treatment.
retrieved from
http://respiratory-lung.health-cares.net/pneumonia-prevention.php

South Dakota Department of Health. (2007) Common Viral
Pneumonia.  Retrieved from. 

National Institute of Health, Viral pneumonia
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000073.htm.