Human parainfluenza viruses

Human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs) are one of the most important causes of  upper and lower respiratory tract diseases, especially in young children.

HPIVs can cause repeated infections throughout life, mostly causing mild disease, such as the common cold and croup, with symptoms including malaise, fever, cough, and such sore throats.  HPIV infections may also cause more severe respiratory diseases especially among the elderly and among patients who are immunocompromised.