Haemophilus parainfluenzae is a species of Haemophilus.

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Haemophilus parainfluenzae
Scientific classification
Domain:	Bacteria
Phylum:	Pseudomonadota
Class:	Gammaproteobacteria
Order:	Pasteurellales
Family:	Pasteurellaceae
Genus:	Haemophilus
Species:	H. parainfluenzae
Binomial name
Haemophilus parainfluenzae Rivers 1922 (Approved Lists 1980)[1]

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It is one of the HACEK organisms.^[2] H. parainfluenzae is an opportunistic pathogen that has been associated with endocarditis, bronchitis, otitis, conjunctivitis, pneumonia, abscesses and genital tract infections.

H. parainfluenzae biotypes I and II are capable of natural genetic transformation.^[3] Natural genetic transformation is a bacterial adaptation for DNA transfer. In order for a bacterium to bind, take up and recombine exogenous DNA into its genome it must enter a special physiological state termed natural competence. In H. parainfluenzae, competence is induced during the late stationary phase of growth.^[3] Natural DNA transformation may play a major role in the exchange of genetic information among H. parainfluenzae isolates.

Acute H. parainfluenzae infections must be treated with antibiotics. Beta-lactam agents such as amoxicillin and ampicillin are antibiotics that are effective against H. parainfluenzae. The Duration of Antibiotic Therapy depends on the severity of the infection. In 40% of infective endocarditis cases caused by H. parainfluenzae, the best treatment is a valve replacement.^[4]