Symptom Differences Between Influenza A and Influenza B

Jan 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

Influenza A refers to type A influenza, and influenza B refers to type B influenza. Generally, differences in symptoms between type A and type B influenza include variations in fever severity, headache intensity, cough characteristics, sore throat severity, and gastrointestinal symptoms. It is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene habits in daily life, such as frequent handwashing and keeping indoor areas well-ventilated, which can help prevent influenza.

　　Influenza A refers to Type A influenza, and Influenza B refers to Type B influenza. Generally, there are differences in symptoms between Type A and Type B influenza, including variations in fever severity, headache intensity, cough characteristics, sore throat severity, and gastrointestinal symptoms. The specific differences are as follows:

　　1. Fever severity: Patients with Type A influenza typically experience more severe fever; some patients may have their body temperature rise rapidly to 39°C or even higher, and the fever may last relatively longer, generally about 3-5 days. Patients with Type B influenza usually experience milder fever compared to Type A influenza, with body temperatures commonly between 38°C and 39°C, and fever generally lasts about 3 days.

　　2. Headache severity: Headache symptoms in patients with Type A influenza are often more pronounced, with patients experiencing a feeling of pressure or throbbing pain, and the pain may be intense. Headache symptoms in patients with Type B influenza are relatively mild, possibly manifesting as a dull ache or mild pressure pain.

　　3. Cough characteristics: Cough symptoms in patients with Type A influenza may be more severe, including dry cough or cough with small amounts of white mucus, and coughing may persist for a longer duration. Cough symptoms in patients with Type B influenza are relatively milder, possibly occasional coughing or mild persistent coughing, with slightly more phlegm production compared to Type A influenza.

　　4. Sore throat severity: Sore throat is more pronounced in patients with Type A influenza, with significant stabbing or burning pain felt during swallowing. In patients with Type B influenza, sore throat is relatively mild, possibly only a slight itch or mild foreign body sensation, with no significant pain during swallowing.

　　5. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Type A influenza virus infection may affect gastrointestinal function, and some patients may experience noticeable gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Gastrointestinal symptoms are relatively uncommon in Type B influenza and may manifest only as mild nausea or loss of appetite.

　　It is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene habits in daily life, such as frequent handwashing and keeping indoor areas well-ventilated, which can help prevent influenza.

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Is dizziness after influenza A a sign of recovery?

Under normal circumstances, "Jia Liu" refers to Influenza A H1N1. Whether dizziness following Influenza A H1N1 indicates recovery depends on the specific circumstances. If dizziness is the only symptom present without other accompanying symptoms, it usually suggests the condition is improving. However, if dizziness is accompanied by other systemic symptoms such as headache, tinnitus, or fatigue, it may not indicate improvement. If any discomfort persists, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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How is influenza classified?

Influenza can generally be classified into types such as influenza A, influenza B, influenza C, simple-type influenza, and pneumonia-type influenza. Influenza A: caused by the influenza A virus, which is prone to mutation and can lead to global pandemics. Symptoms are usually severe, characterized by high fever, headache, and muscle aches, and some patients may develop complications.

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How is influenza A transmitted?

In general, influenza A is mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets, close contact, airborne aerosols, contact with contaminated objects, and mother-to-child transmission. It is recommended to take proper personal protective measures in daily life, wear masks correctly when going out, and avoid crowded places. Wash hands frequently with soap or handwash and running water.

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What medication can be taken to prevent H1N1 flu in advance?

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