TYPES OF INFLUENZA

Different Types of the Flu

The first flu virus was identified in the 1930s (although the flu has probably existed for centuries). Since then, scientists have classified influenza viruses into 3 types, creatively named
A, B, and C.

• Influenza Type A is the most common and also the scariest of the three influenzas, causing the most serious epidemics in history.
• Influenza Type B flu outbreaks also can cause epidemics, but the disease it produces generally is milder than that caused by type A.
• Influenza Type C flu viruses, on the other hand, have never been connected with a large epidemic, usually just causing mild respiratory infections similar to the common cold.

How You Get the Flu

Remember when mom told you to cover your mouth when you cough? She was right. Flu viruses spread in droplets caused by coughing or sneezing. Basically the virus needs to pass through the air and enter your body through your nose or mouth.

In addition to being in striking distance from that sneezing and coughing coworker, if you’ve touched a contaminated surface like a telephone or a door knob the viruses can pass from your hands to your nose or mouth. And the risk of infection gets even greater in highly populated areas like schools, buses and crowded living conditions. Remember when mom said to wash your hands? Well, mom knew what she was talking about.

There are ways to help treat and prevent the flu. That’s why it’s important to always know your treatment and prevention options, so if you come in contact with the flu, you can be prepared.

Complications of the Flu

A possible complication of flu is bacterial pneumonia, which can occur in lungs weakened by the flu. Pneumonia can also be caused by the flu virus itself. Complications usually appear after you start feeling better. You may have a brief period of improvement, followed by a sudden onset of the following symptoms:

• High fever
• Shaking chills
• Chest pain with each breath
• Coughing that produces thick, yellowish-green-colored mucus

Bacterial pneumonia can be a very serious and sometimes life-threatening condition; therefore, if you or a family member experiences any of these symptoms, you should speak to your healthcare provider immediately.

Flu Complications in Children and Teens

Reye’s syndrome, a condition that affects the nerves, sometimes develops in children and teenagers who are recovering from the flu. The syndrome often begins in young people after they take aspirin to get rid of fever or pain. Reye’s syndrome begins with nausea and vomiting, and can lead to mental symptoms such as confusion or delirium.

Although very few children develop Reye’s syndrome, you should consult a healthcare provider before giving aspirin or products that contain aspirin to children. Acetaminophen does not seem to be connected with Reye’s syndrome.

Other complications of the flu that can affect children are:

• Convulsions caused by fever
• Croup
• Ear infections

Learn how viruses differ from bacteria.