What is the difference between influenza B and influenza A?
Disease description:
I previously had influenza A and have recently been feeling unwell again, suspecting it might be influenza B. I would like to know the differences between influenza B and influenza A; are their symptoms and treatment methods different?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
Influenza B refers to type B influenza, and influenza A refers to type A influenza. The main differences between the two include the causative agents, the scope of prevalence, and the duration of illness.
Influenza A and B viruses are both common viral types that cause influenza in humans. Influenza B is caused by the influenza B virus, while influenza A is caused by the influenza A virus.
The influenza A virus has high variability and can cross species for transmission; therefore, it may cause large-scale global epidemics. The influenza B virus mainly spreads among humans and has a relatively lower degree of variation. It generally does not lead to severe global pandemics but can still cause seasonal outbreaks of influenza.
The course of illness for influenza B is relatively shorter, usually lasting 5–7 days. In comparison, the duration of influenza A may be longer, ranging from 7–15 days, and may be accompanied by complications.
Symptoms caused by both viruses are similar and include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle pain, fatigue, and headache. However, influenza B may be more severe, yet compared to influenza A, it tends to produce relatively milder systemic toxic symptoms.
If flu symptoms appear, immediate isolation is necessary to prevent transmission to others. Patients should follow medical advice for appropriate drug treatment and rest to promote recovery.
