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Parainfluenza is a virus that affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and cough. It is spread easily through respiratory secretions and occurs most often in children under the age of 5. There is no vaccine available, but it can be prevented by washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with those who have the disease. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and how young the patient is.
Parainfluenza is a virus that affects the upper and lower respiratory systems in humans. It can manifest as a common cold or lead to a more serious illness, such as pneumonia. The four types of human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs) cause different symptoms. They are spread easily through respiratory secretions and occur most often in children under the age of 5. Recurring infections are common although usually less serious.
An HPIV infection occurs when the virus enters the body through the mouth, nose, or eyes after being picked up from a contaminated surface. Infectious droplets released into the air during sneezing or coughing fits also contribute to the spread of this disease. The virus can remain active in the air for up to an hour and on surfaces for a few hours.
Symptoms vary depending on which type of HPIV is causing the infection. HPIV-1 and HPIV-2 usually lead to signs of croup, such as a barking cough. HPIV-3 often causes symptoms of lower respiratory diseases such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Other signs of parainfluenza include a runny nose, sore throat, fever, and irritability.
A diagnosis of HPIV can be made through nasal swabs, blood tests, and chest X-rays. Many cases of parainfluenza where the only symptoms experienced are those of a common cold are thought to go undetected because the symptoms are so mild. Diagnoses are usually made in the most severe cases.
Treatment for HPIV depends on the severity of the disease and how young the patient is. It’s a viral infection, so antibiotics aren’t prescribed. In mild cases, symptoms can be treated with bed rest, a humidifier, and over-the-counter pain medications to help reduce a fever.
Outbreaks of HPIV-1 and HPIV-2 typically occur in the fall of odd-numbered years, although HPIV-2 sometimes occurs every year. HPIV-3 outbreaks usually occur in the spring and early summer of each year. Outbreaks of HPIV-4 are rare.
Those most at risk for complications from parainfluenza include infants and children younger than 2, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. Pediatricians recommend calling or bringing children in for a visit when they show symptoms of croup or have a deep, congested cough. Some cases of HPIV require hospitalization if a life-threatening complication occurs.
As of 2010, there is no vaccine available for parainfluenza. The virus can be prevented by washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with those who have the disease. Sick children should be kept home from school or kindergarten.
