Flu b symptoms
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Understanding Influenza B Symptoms
Common Symptoms of Influenza B
Influenza B, a type of flu virus, presents with a range of symptoms that can vary in severity. The most frequently reported symptoms include fever or feeling feverish with chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Some individuals, particularly children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhea .
Respiratory Symptoms in Children
In pediatric cases, respiratory symptoms are prominent. A study of children hospitalized with influenza B in Philadelphia found that the majority exhibited fever (88%), rhinorrhea (62.6%), and cough (50%). Other respiratory symptoms included otitis (50%), rhonchi (42%), and pharyngitis (13%) . These symptoms are consistent with those observed in other studies, which also noted the presence of croup in a small percentage of cases 23.
Neurological and Muscular Manifestations
Influenza B can also lead to neurological and muscular complications, although these are less common. In a study of pediatric patients, 7.9% exhibited neurological and muscular symptoms such as febrile seizures, myositis, increased intracerebral pressure, delirium, and severe headache. Febrile seizures were the most common, occurring in 67.9% of these cases . Additionally, some children experienced convulsions and acute myalgia .
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Gastrointestinal symptoms, while less frequent, can also occur with influenza B. These include vomiting and diarrhea, which are more common in children than adults . Severe abdominal pain, sometimes mistaken for acute appendicitis, has been reported, particularly in older children .
Severe Complications and Mortality
Severe complications from influenza B, though rare, can be life-threatening. Cases of pneumonia, rhabdomyolysis, and acute respiratory failure have been documented. For instance, a severe case involving a 51-year-old male resulted in death due to rapidly progressing muscle weakness and respiratory failure . Other severe illnesses associated with influenza B include post-influenzal bacterial pneumonia, hyperpyrexia, and Reye's syndrome .
Conclusion
Influenza B presents with a variety of symptoms ranging from mild respiratory issues to severe neurological and muscular complications. While most cases are manageable, severe complications can occur, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions. Awareness and timely medical intervention are crucial in managing and mitigating the impact of influenza B.
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