Parent Education for Parainfluenza Infection in Children
Parainfluenza is a viral infection that requires only supportive care at home with antipyretics and fluids—no antiviral medications or antibiotics are needed unless complications develop. 1
Key Points to Educate Parents
What Parainfluenza Is
- Parainfluenza is a common viral respiratory infection that causes cold-like symptoms in children and is completely different from influenza (the flu). 1
- Unlike influenza, there are no antiviral medications that treat parainfluenza. 1
- Most children recover at home without any specific medical treatment. 1
Home Management
Fever and Discomfort:
- Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage fever and make your child more comfortable. 1
- Never give aspirin to children with viral infections due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, a serious condition affecting the brain and liver. 1
- Fever is a normal response that helps the body fight infection. 2
Hydration:
- Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. 1
- Offer frequent small amounts if your child is reluctant to drink. 1
Antibiotics Are Not Helpful:
- Antibiotics do not work against viral infections like parainfluenza. 1
- Antibiotics are only needed if your doctor suspects a secondary bacterial infection (like pneumonia or ear infection). 1
When to Seek Medical Attention
Call your doctor or go to the emergency department if your child develops:
- High fever above 101.3°F (38.5°C) with cough or flu-like symptoms. 1
- Breathing difficulties: fast breathing, grunting sounds, chest pulling in with breaths, or working hard to breathe. 3
- Severe earache lasting more than a day. 3
- Vomiting for more than 24 hours. 3
- Excessive drowsiness or difficulty waking up. 3
- Blue lips or skin (cyanosis). 3
- Signs of dehydration: no tears when crying, dry mouth, no wet diapers for 6-8 hours. 3
- Seizures or altered consciousness. 3
Special Considerations for High-Risk Children
Children with underlying conditions need closer monitoring:
- If your child has heart disease, lung disease (including asthma or bronchopulmonary dysplasia), or neurological disorders, they are at higher risk for complications. 1, 4
- These children may become sicker and require hospitalization more often than previously healthy children. 4
- Contact your doctor early if your high-risk child develops respiratory symptoms. 4
What to Expect
Typical Course:
- Most children improve within 3-7 days with home care. 1
- Cough may persist for 1-2 weeks even as other symptoms resolve. 5
- Your child may be contagious for at least a week after symptoms begin. 5
Hospital Care (if needed):
- Some children may require hospitalization for oxygen therapy if oxygen levels drop below 92%. 1
- Intravenous fluids may be given if your child cannot drink adequately. 1
- Your child can go home when breathing improves, they can eat and drink normally, and oxygen levels stay above 92% without supplemental oxygen. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Do not expect antibiotics—they will not help and may cause unnecessary side effects. 1
- Do not use aspirin in children with any viral illness. 1
- Do not wait to seek care if your child shows warning signs, especially breathing difficulties or extreme drowsiness. 3
- Do not assume mild initial symptoms mean your child won't worsen—monitor closely, especially in the first 3-5 days. 4