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Human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs) commonly cause respiratory illnesses in infants and young children. But anyone can get HPIV illness. Symptoms may include fever, runny nose, and cough. Patients usually recover on their own. However, HPIVs can also cause more severe illness, such as croup or pneumonia.

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How HPIVs Spread

HPIVs spread from an infected person to other people through—

  • the air by coughing and sneezing,
  • close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands, and
  • touching objects or surfaces with the viruses on them then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

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