Suncheon City Urges Caution Amid Parainfluenza Outbreak

Increase in Parainfluenza Virus Infection Cases Among Children Aged 0-6 Years

[Suncheon=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Lee Hyung-kwon] Suncheon City, Jeollanam-do (Mayor Heo Seok) urged caution on the 19th regarding health management as the outbreak of acute respiratory infections caused by the parainfluenza virus continues to increase.

Recent respiratory infectious disease sentinel surveillance results show a nationwide increase in reported cases of parainfluenza virus infections among children under 6 years old.

Parainfluenza infection spreads directly or indirectly through respiratory secretions such as nasal mucus and sputum from infected patients, or through contact with the patient's surrounding environment, with an incubation period of 2 to 6 days.

It is especially known as the most common cause of pediatric croup, where the cough sound can resemble a brass instrument or a dog's bark, and it is also known to cause lower respiratory infections such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

In older children and adults, symptoms may include coughing or a cold without cough, or hoarseness.

With the recent increase in attendance at daycare centers and schools, the risk of children being infected with the parainfluenza virus is rising, so if suspicious symptoms appear, it is advised to promptly visit a nearby medical institution for diagnosis and treatment.

A city health center official stated, "Due to the recent rapid temperature changes, it is necessary to pay more attention to health," and added, "To prevent respiratory infectious diseases, please strictly follow personal hygiene rules such as wearing masks, proper handwashing, and cough etiquette, and be sure to receive vaccinations against influenza and other respiratory infectious diseases."

For more detailed information, please contact the Infectious Disease Control Division of the health center.