Feeling under the weather? You might be battling the flu, but is it Flu A or Flu B? Both are contagious respiratory illnesses caused by influenza viruses, but understanding the difference can be helpful.
Flu A is generally more severe and associated with pandemics. It's further categorized into subtypes (like the infamous H1N1). Flu B, on the other hand, typically causes milder symptoms and isn't classified into subtypes like Flu A. It primarily affects humans.
Symptoms for both Flu A and Flu B are similar: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Differentiating them based on symptoms alone is difficult.
So, how do you know which one you have? Only a lab test can definitively tell the difference. While both are treated with antiviral medications, knowing which strain you have can help doctors track outbreaks and predict the severity of the flu season. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers are key for managing symptoms regardless of the flu type. And remember, vaccination offers the best protection against both Flu A and Flu B!
