Current approaches to the development of vaccines effective against parainfluenza viruses.

Infection of infants and children with parainfluenza viruses can lead to serious lower respiratory tract disease. In order to review new information on the genetic organization, epidemiology, and immunobiology of these viruses and of respiratory syncytial virus, WHO, in conjunction with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, held a workshop in Bethesda, MD, USA, 4-5 May 1987. New data on the immunobiology and epidemiology of human parainfluenza 3 virus were presented that should facilitate the development of a vaccine against this pathogen.