How to differentiate between influenza A and influenza B

May 07, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Hello, doctor. I'd like to ask how to differentiate between type A and type B influenza?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Influenza A is a contagious disease caused by the influenza A virus, with main symptoms including fever, fatigue, headache, sore throat, and cough. Treatment primarily involves standardized care, nutritional support, temperature regulation, and symptom relief; antiviral medications may sometimes be required. Influenza B is a contagious disease caused by the influenza B virus. Compared to influenza A, influenza B is more likely to lead to pneumonia. Main symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, sore throat, and cough, as well as possible nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment generally includes standardized care, nutritional supplementation, temperature regulation, antiviral medications, and enhanced physical exercise.