children s health issues
Croup
Causes of Croup
Croup is caused by a viral infection that leads to swelling of the lining of the airways, particularly the area just below the voice box (larynx). Themost common causeof croup is Parainfluenza viruses Croup can also be caused by other viruses, such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection and Human Metapneumovirus Infection (RSV) or an Although croup occurs throughout the year, seasonal outbreaks are common. Croup caused by parainfluenza viruses tends to occur in the fall, and croup caused by RSV and influenza viruses tends to occur in the winter and spring. The infection usually is spread by breathing in airborne droplets containing viruses or by having contact with objects contaminated by these droplets. 