Is influenza A and B caused by a virus or bacteria?

Feb 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

Influenza A and influenza B are caused by the influenza A virus and influenza B virus, respectively. Both the influenza A and B viruses are RNA viruses belonging to the Orthomyxoviridae family. They cause infection by targeting respiratory epithelial cells, triggering an immune response in the body, which leads to symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle pain. As these are viral infections, antibiotics are ineffective against both types.

　　Influenza A and Influenza B refer to Influenza A virus and Influenza B virus, respectively. Both are caused by viral infections. If you experience any symptoms of illness, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the instructions of your healthcare provider for treatment.　　

　　Influenza A and Influenza B are caused by the Influenza A virus and Influenza B virus respectively. Both the Influenza A and Influenza B viruses are RNA viruses belonging to the Orthomyxoviridae family. They cause infection by invading respiratory epithelial cells, triggering an immune response in the body, which leads to symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle pain. As these are viral infections, antibiotics are ineffective against them. Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and the use of antiviral medications.

　　Unlike bacteria, viruses lack cellular structure and must parasitize host cells to replicate and proliferate. The Influenza A virus can be further divided into multiple subtypes and can cause influenza pandemics. The Influenza B virus is relatively more stable but can still cause seasonal influenza outbreaks.

　　During influenza season, methods to prevent infection with influenza viruses include vaccination, maintaining good personal hygiene, and avoiding close contact with individuals who have influenza.

View All

Is a high white blood cell count caused by a virus or bacteria?

Under normal circumstances, whether an elevated white blood cell count is caused by a virus or bacteria needs to be determined based on specific conditions, as both viral and bacterial infections can lead to increased white blood cells. In the early stages of viral infection, white blood cell counts may also rise, such as in poliomyelitis, measles, and varicella-zoster virus infection. An elevated white blood cell count during viral infection is a normal immune response that helps clear the virus.