Influenza A and B are two types of viruses that cause the flu. They are both highly contagious and can cause serious illness, especially in children and the elderly. Influenza A is the most common type of virus responsible for the seasonal flu and it is spread by contact with infected people. Influenza B is less common and tends to cause milder symptoms.
What is Influenza A?
Influenza A is a virus that is highly contagious and can cause severe respiratory illness, especially in children and the elderly. Symptoms of influenza A include fever, sore throat, cough, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. The virus is spread through contact with an infected person, usually through coughing and sneezing. It is also possible to get influenza A from contact with a contaminated surface.
What is Influenza B?
Influenza B is another type of virus that can cause the flu. It is less common than influenza A and typically causes milder symptoms. Symptoms of influenza B include fever, sore throat, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. Like influenza A, the virus is spread through contact with an infected person, usually through coughing and sneezing.
How Are Influenza A and B Different?
The main difference between influenza A and B is the severity of the symptoms. Influenza A is more likely to cause severe symptoms, while influenza B is typically milder. Influenza A is also more likely to cause complications such as pneumonia. Additionally, influenza A is more likely to cause outbreaks, while influenza B is more likely to cause sporadic cases.