Is type B influenza contagious?

Written by Wang Xiang Yu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 10, 2024
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First, we need to understand what influenza B is. Influenza B, also known as influenza type B, is a type of influenza caused by the influenza B virus. Currently, it is classified as a class C infectious disease, which means it is indeed contagious. The main sources of transmission for influenza B are patients and asymptomatic carriers. Generally, the virus is contagious from one to seven days after onset of the illness, with the highest contagiousness occurring within the first two to three days. Influenza B is a respiratory tract infectious disease, mainly spread through the air and droplets. Most people are susceptible to influenza B.

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Written by Ye Xi Yong
Infectious Diseases
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What is type B influenza?

Type B influenza is a type of epidemic influenza characterized by a rapid onset, feeling feverish and chilled. Body temperature usually rises quickly within hours, reaching 39 to 40 degrees Celsius, or even higher. It is accompanied by headache, general body aches, fatigue, and reduced appetite. Its respiratory symptoms are relatively mild, including dry throat, sore throat, dry cough, and possibly diarrhea. Type B influenza is difficult to distinguish from the common cold and typically requires laboratory identification for diagnosis.

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
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Can influenza-specific drugs prevent influenza?

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the invasion of the respiratory tract by influenza virus. Clinically, it can be divided into type A influenza and type B influenza based on the specific type of virus infection. Clinically, there are actually no specific drugs for influenza. The key is to provide appropriate antiviral medications for symptomatic treatment. For example, if a patient is infected with the influenza virus, commonly used treatments include traditional Chinese medicines or antiviral drugs, which can effectively alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms caused by the influenza virus. Regardless of which type of influenza virus the patient has, the medications used in clinical treatment cannot prevent influenza. Therefore, we recommend avoiding going out as much as possible during the peak season of influenza. If going out is necessary, it is important to take precautions, as influenza is transmitted through respiratory droplets. Wearing a mask when going outside can reduce the chances of getting infected with influenza.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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How many days does it take to recover from the flu?

Influenza is primarily a disease caused by an infection of the upper respiratory tract with the influenza virus. It is a contagious disease that can spread among people, leading to an outbreak. Although influenza is a frightening illness, it is a viral infection characterized by being self-limiting, meaning that whether or not medication is used, the patient's condition can improve on its own. Typically, the course of influenza can improve on its own within about 7 to 10 days. At this time, it is sufficient to use medications that reduce fever, relieve pain, or treat nasal congestion and coughing, since patients generally recover on their own after about 7 days, and medication is only needed to alleviate symptoms. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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What department should I go to for the flu?

Influenza refers to a disease that manifests as cough, fever, and sore throat following human infection by the influenza virus. It is commonly known as the flu or influenza. In addition to respiratory symptoms, the flu may also present with digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Therefore, for flu treatment, one can visit the respiratory department. Of course, in cases of severe symptoms such as high fever, chest tightness, and fatigue, one may also visit the emergency department. However, if the initial diagnosis is predominantly digestive symptoms, it's possible that the gastroenterology department will refer the patient back to the respiratory department for treatment. This requires careful differentiation and exclusion by the doctor before making a diagnosis, so visiting the respiratory or emergency department for flu is appropriate.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
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symptoms of influenza

The symptoms of influenza vary greatly from individual to individual. The typical presentation first follows the trend of influenza outbreaks. After coming into contact with an infected person or the influenza virus, symptoms such as fatigue, limb pain, nausea and vomiting may be experienced. Some may also have symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, sore and dry throat, and a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Clinically, the main symptoms are limb pain and body fatigue, and some may also experience a rise in body temperature. It is advisable to drink more water, rest more, and measure body temperature. Choosing antipyretic analgesics can generally relieve symptoms, and antiviral medications can also be used as treatment directed toward the cause. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)