Is influenza a virus or bacteria?

Feb 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

Influenza refers to the flu. Under normal circumstances, influenza is a viral infection. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Influenza is a respiratory infectious disease caused by infection with the influenza virus. The influenza virus is an RNA virus with a unique viral structure and replication method. Bacteria, on the other hand, are prokaryotes whose genetic material is DNA.

　　Influenza refers to the flu. Under normal circumstances, influenza is a viral infection. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by infection with the influenza virus. The influenza virus is an RNA virus with a unique viral structure and replication method. Bacteria, on the other hand, are prokaryotes whose genetic material is DNA. They differ from viruses in structure, growth and reproduction methods, and environmental requirements. Therefore, influenza belongs to viral infections.

　　From a treatment perspective, for influenza virus infection, antiviral drugs are usually used, such as zanamivir inhalation powder, peramivir injection, and oseltamivir phosphate capsules. These medications can specifically inhibit the replication and spread of the influenza virus, thus alleviating symptoms and promoting recovery. Bacterial infections require antibiotics, which are ineffective against viruses. Hence, from the perspective of treatment methods, influenza also belongs to viral infections.

　　In daily life, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene habits, wash hands frequently with soap and running water, especially after touching public items or following coughing or sneezing.

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Does Lianhua Qingwen treat allergic asthma?

The core effects of Lianhua Qingwen are clearing away epidemic toxins, detoxification, promoting lung function, and relieving heat. It is primarily used to treat influenza due to heat-toxin attacking the lungs, and is not intended for the treatment of allergic asthma. Allergic asthma results from an abnormal immune response to allergens and requires targeted anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy treatments. Patients with allergic asthma should seek timely evaluation and standardized treatment at a respiratory medicine department.

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Can a cold be transmitted to people nearby?

If a cold is caused by a virus (such as influenza virus or rhinovirus) and is in the early stage of illness (1–3 days when symptoms are apparent), it can easily spread to others through respiratory droplets or direct contact. When patients cough or sneeze, they release virus-containing droplets; others may become infected by inhaling these droplets or touching contaminated objects. The risk is particularly higher in enclosed environments.

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Is a person still contagious after fever subsides due to a cold?

If a cold is caused by the influenza virus, or if symptoms such as persistent cough, sore throat, and runny nose remain after fever subsides—even if the fever has only been gone for less than 24 hours—there may still be infectivity. Influenza viruses are highly contagious and can persist for a long duration; even after the fever resolves, residual virus may remain in the body and spread via respiratory droplets. The persistence of symptoms also indicates that the virus has not been completely eliminated, meaning there remains a risk of transmission.

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Can patients with viral influenza eat rice noodles?

In general, patients with viral flu can eat rice noodles, as long as they consume them in moderation. When eating rice noodles, avoid spicy broths and excessive stimulating seasonings; opt instead for clear broth or mushroom-based soup, which are more suitable. Drink plenty of warm water daily to promote viral metabolism, and ensure adequate sleep to support body recovery. Regularly open windows indoors to ventilate and maintain fresh air, and avoid crowded places to prevent cross-infection.