Parainfluenza Type-3
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Human Parainfluenza Virus Type-3 (HPIV-3) is one of the four types of human parainfluenza viruses (HPIVs) that belong to the Paramyxoviridae family. These viruses are enveloped, negative-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses. HPIV-3 is a significant cause of respiratory infections, particularly in infants, young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals .
HPIV-3 is known for its annual epidemic cycles, typically peaking in late spring or summer . It is the most prevalent type among the HPIVs, causing the majority of infections and outbreaks . The virus spreads through respiratory secretions via close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces .
HPIV-3 primarily affects the respiratory tract, causing a range of illnesses from mild upper respiratory infections to severe lower respiratory tract diseases such as bronchiolitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia . Symptoms usually develop between 2 to 7 days after exposure and can include fever, runny nose, cough, and sore throat . In severe cases, especially in immunocompromised patients, HPIV-3 can lead to significant morbidity and mortality .
HPIV-3 initiates infection using two surface glycoproteins: the haemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) and fusion (F) proteins . The HN protein facilitates the attachment of the virus to the host cell, while the F protein mediates the fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane, allowing the viral RNA to enter the host cell and begin replication .
Currently, there are no specific antiviral treatments or licensed vaccines available for HPIV-3 . Management of HPIV-3 infections primarily involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms. Preventive measures include good hygiene practices such as regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals .
