Parainfluenza: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Parainfluenza?
A primary care doctor or a pediatrician, a doctor who treats children, usually cares for parainfluenza. A lung doctor, called a pulmonologist, or an infectious disease doctor may help if the illness is severe. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is parainfluenza?
Parainfluenza is a group of viruses that cause infections in the nose, throat, and lungs. Doctors call them human parainfluenza viruses, or HPIVs. They are common viruses that usually cause mild, cold-like symptoms.
There are four types of parainfluenza virus. The viruses can cause croup, bronchiolitis, bronchitis, and some types of pneumonia. Croup is an infection of the voice box and windpipe. Parainfluenza viruses are linked to croup in young children. Most people with parainfluenza get better on their own.
Symptoms
Symptoms are like the common cold. They generally appear 2 to 6 days after infection. They can include:
- Fever.
- Runny nose.
- Cough.
- Sneezing.
- Sore throat.
- Ear pain.
- Irritability, which means being cranky.
- Decreased appetite.
Some children get more serious illness, such as croup, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia. Bronchiolitis is an infection of the smallest airways in the lungs. Signs of serious illness in children include a barking cough, hoarseness, wheezing, and noisy breathing called stridor. The viruses can also make lung conditions such as asthma worse.
In adults, the viruses commonly cause upper respiratory infections, which are infections of the nose and throat. Bronchitis and pneumonia may happen, especially in older adults and people with weak immune systems.
Causes and who gets it
Parainfluenza viruses spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. They also spread through close contact, such as touching or shaking hands. A person can also get sick by touching a surface with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. The viruses may stay infectious on surfaces for a few hours. People are most contagious early in the illness.
Anyone can get infected. Infants, young children, older adults, and people with weak immune systems can get more severe lung illness. Infections are most severe in infants and become less severe with age. By school age, most children have been exposed to the virus. The types peak at different times of year. HPIV-1 and HPIV-2 are more common in the fall, while HPIV-3 usually occurs in spring and early summer.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor does a physical exam and listens to the lungs and chest with a stethoscope. Abnormal sounds, such as crackling or wheezing, may be heard. A nose swab can be used for a rapid viral test. A doctor may also order other tests, such as a chest X-ray or blood cultures.
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment for parainfluenza. Most people recover on their own. Antibiotics do not work against these viruses, because antibiotics only work on bacterial infections.
To feel better, drink plenty of liquids and stay home and rest. Over-the-counter medicines can ease pain and fever, but aspirin should not be given to children. A room humidifier or a hot shower can help ease a sore throat and cough. Certain treatments are available for the symptoms of croup and bronchiolitis to make breathing easier. Medical care may be needed if breathing difficulties develop.
When to see a doctor
Contact your doctor if you or your child develops croup, wheezing, or any other type of breathing difficulty. Also contact your doctor if a child under 18 months has any type of upper respiratory symptom. Airway blockage from croup and bronchiolitis can be life threatening, especially in younger children.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you or your child has severe trouble breathing, bluish or grey skin, or a child who is very sleepy.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either type of doctor can examine you or your child, check for signs of trouble with breathing, and explain how to care for the illness at home. They can also arrange follow-up or send you to a lung or children's specialist when needed.
Common questions
Can you get parainfluenza more than once?
Yes, people can get parainfluenza more than once in their lives. Repeat infections usually cause mild, cold-like illness in the nose and throat.
Is there a vaccine for parainfluenza?
No, there is no vaccine for parainfluenza. Washing your hands, not touching your face, and staying away from sick people can help prevent infection.
Do antibiotics help with parainfluenza?
No, antibiotics do not help with parainfluenza. Antibiotics only work against bacterial infections.
How long after exposure do parainfluenza symptoms start?
Symptoms generally start 2 to 6 days after infection. This time is called the incubation period.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - About Human Parainfluenza Viruses
- MedlinePlus - Parainfluenza
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Clinical Overview of Human Parainfluenza Viruses
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
