Which is more severe, type A or type B influenza?

Feb 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, "Jia Liu" refers to influenza A, and "Yi Liu" refers to influenza B. There is no definitive statement that either influenza A or influenza B is more severe. Both belong to influenza and may cause relatively severe symptoms. In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet. If physical condition permits, appropriate exercise can be performed to help promote metabolism.

Generally speaking, influenza A refers to type A flu, and influenza B refers to type B flu. There is no definitive statement regarding which one, influenza A or influenza B, is more severe. Both belong to influenza and can potentially cause severe symptoms. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Influenza A is caused by the influenza A virus, which mutates relatively quickly and has multiple subtypes, such as H1N1 and H3N2. Influenza B is caused by the influenza B virus, which mutates relatively slowly and does not have subtypes, although it is divided into two distinct lineages. Both viruses can infect humans and are classified as influenza.

Both types are accompanied by severe systemic symptoms such as high fever, muscle pain, headache, cough, and sore throat. The illness may last for a prolonged period and may lead to complications such as pneumonia. Therefore, it is incorrect to claim that either influenza A or B is more severe, as both can cause serious symptoms.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet. If physical condition permits, appropriate exercise can be performed to help promote metabolism.


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