Share
There isn’t just one kind of flu. There are several, and not all behave the same way. Some strains mutate rapidly, like Influenza A. This type can lead to seasonal spikes and even pandemics. Others, like Influenza B, move more slowly but still cause significant illness. Then there are lesser-known types — C, which is mild, and D, which hasn’t affected humans yet.
Understanding which strain is active, how severe it might be, and who it can affect most is the first step in staying cautious. With new variants emerging each year, timely vaccination and basic hygiene measures are the most effective defences.
In this article, we will learn about the different types of influenza virus, the difference between flu and common cold, and how to prevent it.
Types of Influenza Virus
All influenza viruses belong to the Orthomyxoviridae family. Within that, we classify them into four types: A, B, C, and D. Each one behaves differently, targets different hosts, and contributes differently to outbreaks.
- Type A: The most complex and unpredictable. It infects humans and animals, and its subtypes are H1N1 and H3N2. These are often the source of widespread seasonal outbreaks and global pandemics.
- Type B: This type affects only humans. It evolves slowly and can lead to smaller seasonal epidemics. But it's still capable of causing severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Type C: The symptoms are mild and sporadic, which usually don't need clinical intervention.
- Type D: Identified in cattle. Not currently known to infect humans, though it remains under observation in veterinary studies.
Clinical attention is focused on Types A and B, as they are the most clinically significant in humans and are included in seasonal vaccines.
What Are the Symptoms of Influenza?
Some of the most common symptoms of influenza are high fever, exhaustion, a dry, hacking cough, or sudden muscle pain. Some symptoms are visible while others linger in the background for days. The fatigue can last beyond the acute phase and delay recovery.
In adults, the influenza symptoms include:
- Sudden onset of high fever
- Headaches and pressure behind the eyes
- Painful muscles and joints
- Sore throat and dry cough
- Chills alternating with sweating
- Nasal stuffiness or clear discharge
- Difficulty sleeping or staying alert
- Rare - stomach discomfort or nausea
Complications usually affect those with chronic respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or suppressed immunity.
Flu vs Common Cold: How Can You Tell Them Apart?
One of the recurring problems during flu season is misdiagnosis. The early stages of influenza and the common cold look similar. But they are not the same. Here’s a comparison to understand it better:
Antiviral Medicines for Influenza: When Are They Needed?
Influenza is caused by a virus, not bacteria. So, antibiotics won’t work. But antiviral medications can shorten the illness if they’re taken early. Ideally, within 48 hours of symptom onset.
In India, drugs like oseltamivir (commonly known as Tamiflu) are prescribed. They’re not required in every case, but they are considered in the following cases:
- High-risk patients (elderly, immunocompromised, pregnant women)
- Cases of severe or rapidly progressing symptoms
- Situations involving hospital admission
These drugs interfere with the virus’s ability to multiply. They don’t take away the symptoms, but the intensity of the virus is reduced.
Common components involved in flu treatment:
- Neuraminidase inhibitors: These target the virus directly (e.g., oseltamivir, zanamivir).
- Analgesics and antipyretics: Paracetamol or ibuprofen helps reduce fever and pain.
- Cough suppressants: For dry, unproductive coughs that interfere with sleep.
- Hydration support: Oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte drinks when needed.
Routine antibiotics are not part of flu treatment unless it’s a secondary bacterial infection.
How to Prevent Influenza?
Influenza is a virus that is sort of inevitable. However, if you take preventive steps, the impact can be mild. Here are a few things you can do to prevent it:
- Annual Flu Vaccine: Updated every year based on circulating strains. It is the most effective protection for most people, especially healthcare workers, children, seniors, and those with chronic conditions.
- Hand Hygiene: Soap and water are best. Alcohol-based sanitizers are useful, but they are not a full substitute.
- Cough Etiquette: Covering the mouth with a tissue or inner elbow can reduce transmission risk.
- Avoid Crowded Indoor Settings: During peak flu season, avoid going to crowded spaces.
- Wear a Mask When Symptomatic: If you have symptoms or live with someone who does, mask usage will reduce spread within households.
- Ventilation: Flu viruses are viable in stagnant air. Well-ventilated spaces lower the risk.
Nutrition, sleep, and a generally balanced lifestyle improve your immunity, but they don’t directly prevent the flu. That job still rests with vaccines and hygiene.
Conclusion
Flu or influenza is very random, and there isn't a foolproof way to avoid it. Every year, it cycles through populations, changes shape, and returns with new intensity.
Usually, it is a temporary interruption, but if you don't take care, it can lead to other complications like fever or cough. Hence, it is important to know about its symptoms and prevention techniques (as much as you can).
If you or someone in your family is experiencing persistent fever, respiratory discomfort, or fatigue that doesn’t resolve in a few days, visit Hinduja Hospital Mahim. Early evaluation, when combined with accurate diagnosis and prompt care, often makes the difference between recovery and relapse.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
How long does the flu last?
Most people recover from influenza within 7 to 10 days. However, some symptoms like tiredness or a lingering cough may take longer to go away.
Can you get influenza A twice?
Yes. It's possible to catch influenza A multiple times in the same year if different strains are circulating. Immunity from one strain doesn't protect you from another.
Submit your query