PREVIEW
The microbiology of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in older adults, particularly in residents of long- term care facilities, differs from that in the general US population. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (HMPV) are important, newly appreciated causes of pneumonia and triggers of comorbid disease exacerbations that often lead to hospitalization of high-risk elderly patients with underlying heart or lung disease. Here, Dr High examines the diagnostic and treatment strategies that are needed in older adults and outlines preventive methods that may greatly reduce the risk of illness in this population.