What is influenza?
Influenza is a contagious viral infection that attacks the respiratory system.
Influenza viruses infecting humans can be divided into three main groups: A, B, and C. Influenza type A infection can be serious. Because it usually causes widespread disease.
The common symptoms of influenza type A infection can be confused with many diseases. The thing is, some mild cases of the flu go away on their own without any noticeable symptoms, but severe cases can be dangerous.
Symptoms of type A influenza
Unlike a cold, flu usually occurs with a sudden onset of symptoms. Common symptoms of this type of infection include:
Cough
Runny or stuffy nose
sneeze
Sore throat
Fever
Headache
tiredness
Shivering
body pain
Sometimes, the symptoms of type A influenza may go away on their own. However, if the symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement, it is necessary to see a doctor.
Of course, people who are at risk of flu complications, such as people over 65 and those with weakened immune systems, should receive immediate medical treatment. Because in some rare cases, influenza can be fatal.
Complications
Influenza type A, if not treated, can cause complications such as:
ear infection
diarrhea
nausea
Vomit
dizziness
stomach ache
Chest pain
asthma attack
Pneumonia
bronchitis
heart problems
Comparison of influenza type A and influenza type B
Influenza type A and B are the most common forms of this infection that cause seasonal outbreaks. Influenza C usually causes only mild respiratory infections.
Influenza type B can be as severe as influenza type A, but its prevalence is less than that of type A during the flu season. Humans are the natural host of type B infection.
Type B influenza viruses mutate much more slowly than type A infections and are classified by strains rather than serotypes. The genetic makeup of B virus strains takes longer to change than A.
Influenza type A can be dangerous and has been shown to increase the risk of getting sick. Unlike type B infection, type A viruses are classified by subtypes and strains.
Influenza A mutates faster than influenza B, but both viruses are always changing, creating new strains during the next flu season. Therefore, influenza vaccination will not prevent a new strain.
Wild birds are the natural host of type A virus, also known as bird flu. This infection can be transmitted to other animals and humans. This feature, along with the higher rate of mutation in type A influenza, can cause epidemics.
How to diagnose type A influenza
Before treating the disease, the doctor must check for the influenza virus. This review includes a rapid molecular preference test. In this method, the doctor takes a swab from the nose or throat. This test detects influenza viral RNA in 30 minutes or less.
However, the results of this test are not always accurate and the doctor may have to diagnose influenza based on symptoms or other tests.
Treatment of influenza type A
In some cases, the symptoms of type A influenza will resolve on their own with adequate rest and fluid intake. In other cases, the doctor may prescribe antiviral medication to fight the infection.
Common antivirus versions include:
Zanamivir
Oseltamivir
Pramivir
These drugs, known as neuraminidase inhibitors, reduce the ability of the influenza virus to spread from cell to cell and slow down the infection process.
These drugs can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms or your condition gets worse, stop using your prescription and see your doctor right away.
A new drug called baloxavir marboxil (Zofloza), developed by a Japanese pharmaceutical company, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2018. This antiviral drug helps prevent the multiplication of the influenza virus.
Over-the-counter medication can also reduce flu symptoms. Also, remember to drink enough fluids to loosen the chest lining and strengthen the immune system.
How long is influenza type A contagious?
If you have the flu, you are contagious from at least one day before symptoms start until five days after. Of course, in more severe cases, the possibility of contagion can exist long after the onset of symptoms. This time will vary if the immune system is weak or underdeveloped, especially in children or the elderly.
Prevention of influenza type A
The best way to prevent the flu is to get annual vaccines. Each flu vaccination protects against three to four types of virus during that year’s flu season.
Other ways to prevent the spread of this disease are:
Washing hands regularly
Avoiding large crowds, especially during flu outbreaks
Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Stay at home if you have a fever and for at least 24 hours after it clears
Conclusion
Influenza type A is a contagious viral infection that can cause serious complications if left untreated. Although some cases of this infection improve without prescription drugs, it is necessary to see a doctor to be sure.
In the case of influenza, it is better to avoid self-diagnosis. Because although the flu is similar to a cold, it may have worse symptoms. If you think you have the flu, call your doctor for treatment advice.
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