Parainfluenza

Treatment:

There is no specific treatment for the viral infection. Specific treatments are available for the symptoms of croup and bronchiolitis.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most infections in adults and older children are mild and recovery takes place without treatment. Medical intervention may be necessary if breathing difficulties or respiratory distress develop.

Complications:

• Secondary bacterial infections are the most common complication.
• Airway obstruction in croup and bronchiolitis can be severe, even life-threatening.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child develops croup, wheezing or any other type of breathing difficulty. You may wish to call your health care provider for children under 18 months of age with upper respiratory symptoms (even without evidence of airway obstruction).