Per CDC:
Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIVs) commonly cause upper and lower respiratory illnesses in infants, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, but anyone can get infected.
What to know
Signs and symptoms of HPIVs are similar to the common cold.
Washing hands, avoiding touching your face, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick can help prevent infection.
Most people with HPIVs will recover on their own.
Prevention
Currently, there is no vaccine to protect you against infection caused by HPIVs. However, researchers are trying to develop vaccines.
You may be able to reduce your risk of HPIV and other respiratory viral infections by taking everyday actions to help stop the spread of germs, like:
washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
avoiding close contact with people who are sick
Frequent hand washing is especially important in childcare settings.
Breastfeeding may protect babies from HPIVs during their first few months of life. That's because mothers may have antibodies (protective proteins) in their breast milk to fight infection.
If you are sick with a common cold illness or cough that may be caused by HPIV, you can help protect others by:
staying home while you are sick
avoiding close contact with others
covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
keeping objects and surfaces clean and disinfected
You may also consider wearing a well-fitted mask. Children ages 2 years and older can wear masks or respirators to protect themselves and others from HPIVs.
To learn more visit: About Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIVs) | HPIVs | CDC
