Parainfluenza is a group of viruses that cause respiratory infections, especially in children. Symptoms often resemble a cold or the flu, including cough, fever and congestion.
These viruses are common and usually mild, but they can sometimes lead to more serious illness, especially in infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
“Parainfluenza is a virus in the same family as measles and mumps,” said Russell Horton, DO, a physician with Banner Health Center in Queen Creek, AZ. “It’s different from the influenza virus which is in a different family of viruses. Often parainfluenza is less severe and there are no vaccines for it like there are for the flu.”
Symptoms of parainfluenza can be quite confusing though, especially if you’re experiencing similar symptoms like those of the flu, COVID-19 and other upper respiratory infections or viruses.
Read on to learn more about these viral invaders and how to fight them off.
What are the signs and symptoms of parainfluenza viruses?
Symptoms of parainfluenza are similar to a cold or flu and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include:
- stuffy or runny nose
- fever
- sore throat
- barking cough or dry cough (croup)
- wheezing
- stridor (a high-pitched noise heard usually when breathing in)
- tightness in chest
- shortness of breath
- difficulty breathing
Most often, the symptoms aren’t severe enough to be cause for concern, however they can be life-threatening for infants, older adults and anyone who has a compromised or weakened immune system. “In some cases, HPIV can cause pneumonia and lung infections,” Dr. Horton said.
If you’re part of a high-risk group and are experiencing symptoms, contact your health care provider.
Parainfluenza vs flu and COVID-19
Parainfluenza can look similar to other respiratory infections, but there are differences:
- Parainfluenza: Often causes croup in children and upper respiratory symptoms
- Flu (influenza): More likely to cause high fever, body aches and fatigue
- COVID-19: May include loss of taste or smell and more systemic symptoms
Because symptoms overlap, your provider may recommend testing in some cases.
Types of parainfluenza viruses (HPIV)
There are four types of HPIV, aptly named HPIV-1, HPIV-2, HPIV-3 and HPIV-4. These all cause respiratory infections, but the type of infection, symptoms and location of the infection can depend on the virus you have. “These different types are also most active at different times of the year,” Dr. Horton noted.
Symptoms can vary depending on the viral type and individual, but here’s a quick breakdown of each:
- HPIV-1: The leading cause of croup in infants and young children; often seen in the fall and winter
- HPIV-2: A common cause for croup; often seen in the fall
- HPIV-3: Mostly associated with bronchiolitis, bronchitis and pneumonia; often seen in the spring and summer, but can appear year-round
- HPIV-4: The rarest of the four types; no seasonal patterns
How does parainfluenza spread?
Parainfluenza infections can pass easily from person to person, like other respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, the flu and colds. Parainfluenza spreads easily through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
“It’s transmitted by respiratory droplets as well as contact,” Dr. Horton said. “So being near a person when they cough or sneeze or touching someone who’s infected can spread the virus. It can also live on surfaces.”
In most cases, parainfluenza occurs in young children, but anyone can get it at any age.
How is parainfluenza treated?
There is no specific cure, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Generally, parainfluenza is diagnosed by reviewing your symptoms and with a physical exam. “Tests can be run to check for HPIV and to find out which type, but this is usually saved for the hospital setting and is not routinely tested for at your primary care office,” Dr. Horton said.
There’s no cure for HPIV. Once you’ve been infected by a parainfluenza virus, it needs to run its course.
If your symptoms are mild, treatment is usually at-home remedies, such as nasal saline, nasal suction, cool mist humidifiers and lots of fluids. Tylenol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen can be used for fevers. Honey may help but isn’t recommend for children under the age of 1 years old.
For croup, your health care provider may treat it with a dose of a steroid and, in more severe cases, may require breathing treatments.
How to prevent parainfluenza
There currently isn’t a vaccine to prevent HPIV infection, but there are things you can do to help prevent infection. “In fact, prevention is done by a lot of the same things we have gotten used to during the pandemic,” Dr. Horton said. These include:
- Staying home when sick
- Avoiding contact with those who are sick
- Wash your hands
“It’s easily spread among kids, so total prevention is hard to achieve,” Dr. Horton said. “If you think your child is ill with any condition, reach out to their provider to get more specific advice.”
Frequently asked questions about parainfluenza
Is parainfluenza serious?
Most cases are mild, but it can be serious in young children and high-risk groups.
How long does parainfluenza last?
Symptoms usually last several days to a week.
Can adults get parainfluenza?
Yes, though it’s more common in children.
Is there a vaccine for parainfluenza?
No, there is currently no vaccine available.
Takeaway
Parainfluenza is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild illness but can lead to complications in some people. Knowing the symptoms and when to seek care can help you manage the infection and protect others.
For more helpful advice for colds, the flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses, check out:
- Healthy Habits to Help Protect Against Flu
- Why Do Lymph Nodes Get Swollen?
- Feeling Miserable: Is It a Cold or The Flu?
Content in this article was updated on April 22, 2026.
