ARDS can be triggered by various infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Notably, severe cases of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, have been linked to a high incidence of ARDS. Other infections that can lead to ARDS include influenza, pneumonia, sepsis, and tuberculosis. These pathogens can cause direct lung damage or trigger a hyperinflammatory response, both of which can result in ARDS.
