Is Flu A or B worse?

Is Flu A or B worse?

Unlike type A flu viruses, type B flu is found only in humans. Type B flu may cause a less severe reaction than type A flu virus, but occasionally, type B flu can still be extremely harmful.

Is Flu A or B worse 2020?

Jan. 16, 2020 — Influenza is still going strong in the United States and isn't expected to slow down for at least several more weeks, according to a report from the CDC. What's more, this season's vaccine is only a 58% match for the B strain of flu, known as B/Victoria, that is hitting children especially hard.

What strain of flu is going around 2020?

Article: Influenza B Strain Dominating Early in the 2020 Flu Season. CDC.gov: “Types of Influenza Viruses.” CDC.gov: “Flu & You.” William Schaffner, professor of infectious diseases and preventive medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville.

How long are you contagious with flu?

If you have the flu, you'll be contagious one day before developing symptoms and up to five to seven days after becoming ill. Younger children or people with a weakened immune system may be contagious for longer. The influenza virus can also survive on surfaces, such as doorknobs and tables, for up to 24 hours.

How long does the 2020 flu last?

For most healthy people, the flu is an uncomfortable but short-term illness that resolves itself as the immune system fights it off. Symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and they last five to seven days.

Why is the flu deadly?

One of the most dangerous complications that can result from the flu is bacterial pneumonia, Dr. Taege says. Pneumonia is a lung infection in which the airways become inflamed and the air sacs of the lungs become filled with fluid. It can be life-threatening.

What flu is going around now?

Nationally, influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses are now the most commonly reported influenza viruses this season. Reporting of genetic and antigenic characterization and antiviral susceptibility of influenza viruses will resume with the 2020-2021 season.

Does the flu need to be treated?

Most people with flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. CDC recommends prompt treatment for people who have flu infection or suspected flu infection and who are at high risk of serious flu complications, such as people with asthma, diabetes or heart disease.

Why does your body ache when you have the flu?

The flu, the common cold, and other viral or bacterial infections can cause body aches. When such infections occur, the immune system sends white blood cells to fight off the infection. This can result in inflammation, which can leave the muscles in the body feeling achy and stiff.

Can you have the flu without a fever?

A fever is part of the immune system's response to an infection and is a typical flu symptom. However, it is possible for the flu to occur without a fever. In mild cases of the flu, the body may be able to fight off the influenza virus without raising its temperature.

Why do I keep getting the flu?

It is possible to get sick regularly when the immune system is not functioning correctly. The reason for this is that the body is unable to fight off germs, such as bacteria, properly. If an infection occurs, it can take longer than usual to recover.

What do the H and N stand for in flu?

The “H” (hemagglutinin) and the “N” (neuraminidases) are both proteins that are found on the outer shell or envelope of the virus. Different viruses have different hemagglutinin and neuraminidase proteins.

Can you get the flu twice?

You're probably at least vaguely aware that there are different strains of the flu. Because there's more than one kind of flu, it's always possible to get the flu twice (in fact, it's possible to be infected with two flu viruses at the same time)—it's just very rare.

Is flu A virus or bacteria?

Illnesses like influenza, or “the flu,” and upper respiratory infections (URIs) fall under the category of viral infections, while illnesses such as pneumonia, sinusitis and ear infections are considered bacterial infections.

Can you have the flu and not throw up?

While most symptoms will taper off one to two weeks after onset, a dry cough and general fatigue can last several more weeks. Other possible symptoms of the flu include dizziness, sneezing, and wheezing. Nausea and vomiting are not common symptoms in adults, but they sometimes occur in children.

Can you get the flu twice 2020?

Do antibiotics help with flu?

Antibiotics only cure certain infections due to bacteria — and if taken carelessly, you may get more serious health problems than you bargained for. With any illness, it is critical to address the underlying cause, whether it's bacterial or viral. Antibiotics will not kill cold or flu viruses.