11/06/26 Public Health Education Topic: Parainfluenza

Per CDC

What to know

• Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIVs) are common respiratory viruses that usually cause mild, cold-like symptoms.

• HPIVs are associated with croup in young children.

• Some people, such as children and adults with weakened immune systems, may be more likely to develop severe illness.

• Washing hands, not touching your face, and not being in close contact with people who are sick can help prevent infection.

• Most people with HPIVs will recover on their own.

Symptoms

Symptoms generally appear 2 to 6 days after infection. Symptoms are like the common cold and can include:

• fever

• runny nose

• cough

• sneezing

• sore throat

Other symptoms of HPIV illness may include:

• ear pain

• irritability

• decreased appetite

  
  

Serious illness in children

HPIVs can also cause more serious illness in children, including:

• croup (infection of the vocal cords [larynx], windpipe [trachea], and sometimes into the larger airways into the lungs [bronchi])

• bronchitis (infection of the main airways that connect the windpipe to the lungs)

• bronchiolitis (infection in the smallest airways in the lungs)

• pneumonia (infection of the lungs)

• worsening of underlying lung conditions, such as asthma

Symptoms of more serious illness in children may include:

• barking cough

• hoarseness

• stridor (noisy or high-pitched sound with breathing)

• wheezing

Illness in adults

HPIVs commonly cause upper respiratory infections in adults. More severe illness, such as bronchitis and pneumonia may occur, especially in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms in adults may include:

• fever

• runny nose

• cough

• sore throat

You can have multiple HPIV illnesses in your lifetime.

How it spreads

HPIVs usually spread from an infected person to others through:

• the air by coughing and sneezing

• close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands

• touching objects or surfaces that have HPIVs on them and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes

People can get HPIV infections any time of year.

Protecting yourself

There is no vaccine or treatment that can prevent HPIV infection. To prevent the spread of HPIV, follow core prevention strategies for respiratory viruses:

• Practice good hygiene (practices that improve cleanliness).

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.

  • Learn and use proper handwashing techniques. Frequent handwashing is especially important in childcare settings and healthcare facilities.

  • Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly, such as countertops, handrails, and doorknobs.

• Take steps for cleaner air.

• When you have symptoms of a respiratory virus, take steps to prevent spread.

To learn more please visit: About Human Parainfluenza Viruses | HPIVs | CDC