24.4 Different Paramyxoviruses:

24.4.1 Parainfluenza:  

Nearly 25-35% of acute respiratory infections in infants and children are caused by this group of viruses. Disease starts with mild flu like symptoms which may progress to life-threatening (Croup, bronchiolitis and pneumonia) condition in the untreated cases. Parainfluenza viruses are the most common cause of croup. The viruses were divided into 4 distinct serotypes (numbered 1-4). These serotypes usually produce local inflammation in the upper and lower respiratory tract causing denudation of the ciliated epithelium (nose and throat). The virus generally sheds over 5-12 days following infection. Serotype 1 and 2 are attributed for the severe forms of the disease in young children.

 

24.4.2 Mumps:

This is another common disease of children. Acute infection of Mumps virus produces inflammation of salivary glands leading to its enlargement. Only one serotype is available for this group of virus. The common target tissues include glandular and nervous tissue. The virus enters through the pharynx or conjunctiva, s ystemic infection of the virus can cause viremia. Secondary dissemination of the virus occurs to salivary glands, gonads, pancreas, and central nervous system after their multiplication in the lymphoid tissues. Incubation period of the disease may vary between 18-24 days while in many cases it is asymptomatic. The most characteristic feature of the disease is painful swelling of the parotid glands. Sometimes disease may lead to deafness and severe inflammation in the male reproductive system.