Understanding Influenza A Virus Infections

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What is Type A influenza?

Type A influenza is a contagious viral infection that can have life-threatening complications if left untreated. Influenza A symptoms can be confused with signs of other conditions but are usually more sudden and severe. Learn symptoms of this infection, how it’s diagnosed, treatment options, and prevention methods.

What type of virus causes the flu?

What causes the flu? Flu is caused by the type A, type B or rarely the type C influenza virus. Only types A and B cause major outbreaks and severe disease, while type C can cause an illness in children similar to the common cold.

What type of influenza virus is circulating in humans?

Currently circulating in humans are subtype A (H1N1) and A (H3N2) influenza viruses. The A (H1N1) is also written as A (H1N1)pdm09 as it caused the pandemic in 2009 and replaced the previous A (H1N1) virus which had circulated prior to 2009. Only influenza type A viruses are known to have caused pandemics.

What are the symptoms of influenza virus infection?

Influenza virus infection causes a wide spectrum of disease. People may have: Fever is an obvious sign of infection and peaks at the height of the systemic illness. Other symptoms are similar for influenza A and B viruses, and include: The clinical features of influenza in infants and children are similar to those in adults.

What is the difference between a cold and a flu?

Most people who have the flu are infected with the influenza type A virus. Influenza A infection is more serious than the common cold. It can cause major outbreaks and severe disease. The virus that causes COVID-19 is different from the virus that causes influenza. Influenza A infections are most common in winter.

What Is Influenza A Virus Infections

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