Influenza, commonly known as influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses. The two main types of influenza viruses that cause seasonal epidemics in humans are Influenza A and Influenza B. Understanding the characteristics, transmission, symptoms, prevention and treatment of these viruses is crucial to managing epidemics and protecting public health.

Characteristics of Influenza A and B

Influenza A: This type is known for its ability to cause widespread epidemics and global pandemics. Influenza A viruses are categorized based on two proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N), with various subtypes based on different combinations of these proteins (e.g. H1N1, H3N2). These viruses can infect humans, birds, pigs and other animals, allowing them to acquire genetic changes that can lead to highly variable strains with pandemic potential.

Influenza B: Unlike influenza A, this type primarily affects humans and usually causes milder outbreaks. Influenza B is not divided into subtypes but is divided into two lineages: B/Yamagata and B/Victoria. Influenza B is more stable because it is less prone to genetic changes than Influenza A, but can still contribute significantly to seasonal influenza morbidity.

Infection

Both Influenza A and B are transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. People can also become infected by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching their face. Flu is most contagious in the first 3-4 days after the onset of illness.

Symptoms

Flu symptoms caused by both Influenza A and B are similar and can range from mild to severe:

• Fever or feeling cold
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• headaches
• Tiredness

Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea, but this is more common in children than adults.

Prevention

The most effective way to protect against flu is vaccination. Annual flu vaccines are designed to protect against influenza viruses, including Influenza A and B strains that research shows will be most prevalent in the coming season. Other preventive measures include washing hands frequently, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and avoiding close contact with patients.

Diagnosis

When detecting influenza virus, PCR technique is used in swab tests taken from the nasal and oral mucosa. Diagnosis is confirmed if virus genetic material is found in the swab sample. In addition, the presence of infection in the patient can be evaluated with some blood tests (CBC CRP).

Treatment

Antiviral medications can treat the flu by reducing the severity and duration of symptoms when taken early in the disease. Common antivirals include oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), and peramivir (Rapivab). Supportive care, such as staying hydrated, resting, and using over-the-counter pain relievers, also helps manage symptoms.

Impact and Management

Seasonal influenza epidemics cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting all age groups but being particularly severe among the young, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. Effective surveillance and vaccine formulation adjustments are critical to respond to the ever-changing nature of influenza viruses, particularly Influenza A, due to their potential to cause pandemics.

In conclusion, both Influenza A and B are important causes of respiratory diseases that have a significant impact on public health. Continued research, surveillance, and vaccination efforts are critical to managing the burden of this ever-evolving pathogen.

Dr. Ali Al Sahli
Elite Hospital Emergency Service

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