What is Influenza A?

Feb 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have recently seen a lot of online news about H1N1 flu, but I don't really know much about it. I would like to learn more. Could you please explain what H1N1 flu is?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi

Influenza A, also known as Type A influenza, is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by infection with the Influenza A virus.

The Influenza A virus is highly variable and can spread from person to person through airborne droplets and direct contact. It is one of the main types of influenza. The symptoms of Influenza A are similar to those of the common cold, but are generally more severe, including high fever, cough, sore throat, muscle or joint pain, headache, chills, fatigue, and general malaise. Some patients may also experience symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. For elderly individuals, infants, pregnant women, and people with chronic diseases, Influenza A can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and myocarditis, which may even be life-threatening.

In daily life, maintaining good personal hygiene habits, such as frequent handwashing and wearing masks, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and enhancing one's own immunity can help reduce the risk of contracting Influenza A. If infected with Influenza A, medications such as Lianhua Qingwen capsules, Ganmaoling granules, and Oseltamivir phosphate capsules may be used for treatment under medical guidance to aid recovery.