Type b flu symptoms
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Symptoms of Type B Influenza
Common Symptoms of Type B Influenza
Type B influenza, like its counterpart Type A, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The symptoms of Type B influenza are generally similar to those of Type A, including fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, and headache. These symptoms typically begin 1 to 4 days after infection and can last for several days .
Respiratory Symptoms
Patients with Type B influenza often experience a range of respiratory symptoms. Runny nose, sore throat, and rhinorrhea are particularly common, occurring in 74%, 38%, and 49% of cases, respectively . These symptoms are less frequent in COVID-19 cases, highlighting a key difference between the two illnesses .
Systemic Symptoms
In addition to respiratory symptoms, Type B influenza can cause systemic symptoms such as fever, body aches, and fatigue. These symptoms are similar to those caused by Type A influenza and can be severe enough to require medical attention .
Age-Related Differences
The clinical presentation of Type B influenza can vary by age. Children aged 5-14 years are more likely to be infected with Type B viruses compared to other age groups . However, the overall clinical illness produced by Type B influenza is generally indistinguishable from that caused by Type A when consulting a general practitioner for acute respiratory infections .
Hospitalization and Severity
While Type B influenza can lead to hospitalization, it is generally less severe than Type A. The case fatality rate for hospitalized patients with Type B influenza is around 3%, which is lower than that for Type A and COVID-19 . The duration of hospitalization for Type B influenza is also shorter, averaging around 6.7 days .
Conclusion
Type B influenza shares many symptoms with Type A, including fever, body aches, and respiratory issues like runny nose and sore throat. However, it tends to be less severe and has a lower hospitalization rate. Understanding these symptoms can help in timely diagnosis and treatment, especially during flu season.
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