National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Parainfluenza virus type 3


Other Names:
Human parainfluenza virus type 3; PIV3
Categories:
Parainfluenza virus type 3 is one of a group of common viruses known as human parainfluenza viruses (HPIV) that cause a variety of respiratory illnesses.[1] Symptoms usually develop between 2 and 7 days from the time of exposure and typically resolve in 7-10 days. [2][3] Symptoms may include fever, runny nose, and cough. HPIV-3 can also cause bronchiolitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Infants and young children are particularly susceptible to HPIV-3 infections, though older adults and those with a weakened immune system are also at risk for complications.[2][3] HPIVs are usually spread from an infected person to others through coughing, sneezing, and/or touching.[4] There is currently no vaccine to protect against parainfluenza virus infections. Most HPIV infections resolve on their own and do not require special treatment, though medical intervention may be necessary for severe breathing problems. [5][6][7] Most adults have antibodies against parainfluenza but can get repeat infections.[5]
Last updated: 8/30/2016

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Clinical Research Resources

  • ClinicalTrials.gov lists trials that are related to Parainfluenza virus type 3. Click on the link to go to ClinicalTrials.gov to read descriptions of these studies.

    Please note: Studies listed on the ClinicalTrials.gov website are listed for informational purposes only; being listed does not reflect an endorsement by GARD or the NIH. We strongly recommend that you talk with a trusted healthcare provider before choosing to participate in any clinical study.

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

General Information

In-Depth Information

  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Parainfluenza virus type 3. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  1. Pringle, Craig. Parainfluenza Virus Infection. Merck Manual Professional Version. April, 2014; http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/respiratory-viruses/parainfluenza-virus-infections. Accessed 8/30/2016.
  2. Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIVs) Symptoms and Illnesses. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). August, 2015; http://www.cdc.gov/parainfluenza/about/symptoms.html. Accessed 8/30/2016.
  3. Parainfluenza Virus. Medscape. October 7, 2015; http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/224708-overview. Accessed 8/30/2016.
  4. Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIVs) Transmission. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). August, 2015; http://www.cdc.gov/parainfluenza/about/transmission.html. Accessed 8/30/2016.
  5. Parainfluenza. MedlinePlus. August, 2014; https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001370.htm. Accessed 8/30/2016.
  6. Parainfluenza Viral Infections. American Academy of Pediatrics. November, 2015; https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/Parainfluenza-Viral-Infections.aspx. Accessed 8/30/2016.
  7. Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIVs) Prevention and Treatment. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). August, 2015; http://www.cdc.gov/parainfluenza/about/prevention-treatment.html. Accessed 8/30/2016.