Difference between Influenza B and Influenza A
Disease description:
Recently, influenza has been rampant, and I heard there are Type A and Type B flu. I think I might have caught it, but I'm not sure which type I have. What's the actual difference between Type A and Type B flu?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
Influenza B refers to type B influenza, while influenza A refers to type A influenza. Both belong to the category of influenza and differ in viral characteristics, symptom presentation, and geographic spread.
Influenza B is caused by infection with the influenza B virus. Influenza A is caused by infection with the influenza A virus. The influenza A virus has a broader host range and can infect not only humans but also birds and livestock. The influenza A virus has a greater capacity for mutation and can cross species barriers to infect humans, whereas the influenza B virus mainly spreads among humans.
Influenza B typically has a sudden onset and mainly presents with symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and generalized muscle pain. Additionally, when the influenza B virus affects the brain, symptoms such as headache, convulsions, seizures, impaired consciousness or behavior, and even coma may occur; if the heart is affected, symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, and arrhythmia may appear. Influenza A symptoms are usually more severe and mainly include fever, fatigue, exhaustion, and pain in muscles and joints throughout the body.
Influenza B typically occurs as localized outbreaks and has a relatively short disease course, generally lasting 5–7 days. Influenza A can easily lead to widespread epidemics and has a longer disease course, usually lasting 7–15 days.
It is recommended to follow medical advice for treatment, ensure adequate rest, drink plenty of water, maintain good nutrition, and enhance personal immunity.
