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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Can type A influenza heal by itself?

Type A influenza is self-healing, but it mainly depends on the person who is infected with the flu. Generally speaking, regarding viral diseases, our bodies will produce corresponding antibodies against these microbial pathogens, and then use these antibodies to eliminate them. Type A influenza is a cold-like disease caused by an influenza virus, and it certainly can stimulate our bodies to produce antibodies against this type of flu for elimination. For some young and healthy individuals, or those with a generally good health base, type A influenza can completely heal on its own without any antiviral medications. However, for older adults, those who are weaker, or those who have underlying conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease, type A influenza may lead to severe pneumonia or even be fatal. Therefore, whether type A influenza should be treated, or whether it can rely on self-healing, depends on the condition of the infected patient. Thus, the treatment principles of doctors also vary depending on the different conditions of patients.

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How is avian flu treated?

First, patients suspected or confirmed with avian influenza should be isolated and treated as early as possible. Second, antiviral medications such as oseltamivir and zanamivir should be taken within forty-eight hours of onset, the sooner the better. Third, physical cooling or antipyretic drugs should be administered during high fever, and medications like Compound Licorice Tablets and Ambroxol Hydrochloride can be used to relieve severe cough and phlegm. Oxygen therapy using nasal cannulas or masks may be administered depending on the degree of hypoxia. Fourth, strengthen supportive treatment, maintain internal environment stability, and prevent complications.

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How is the flu transmitted?

Influenza, also known as the flu, typically occurs when the human body is infected by influenza viruses, leading to associated symptoms. The symptoms of influenza can vary depending on the type of infecting pathogen or virus. Influenza is primarily transmitted from person to person or through contact with livestock and poultry. The main route of transmission is through droplets, such as when one comes into contact with droplets from a sneeze or cough of an infected person. Another possibility is through contact with birds or livestock, such as being infected by secretions or excretions from pigs, which is also a mode of transmission.

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How long does influenza IgM positive last?

Influenza IgM actually refers to a globulin released by our immune system after influenza enters our body and is recognized by the immune system. This globulin encapsulates or localizes the virus, aiding the phagocytic cells in our body to kill it. This is called IgM. IgM indicates the presence of the influenza virus and a recent invasion into the human body. It is a marker in body fluids and generally persists for about 14-20 days after infection. It does not provide long-term protection to our body and is merely a marker for the acute phase, disappearing once the situation stabilizes.

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Can the flu cause recurring fever?

Influenza can cause recurrent fever as a symptom. Epidemic influenza, also caused by influenza or parainfluenza virus infection, is a type of acute respiratory infectious disease. The presence of the virus in the body can stimulate the body's temperature regulation center, which may cause recurrent episodes of fever, typically lasting about three to five days, and the fever should not persist beyond seven days, so there is no need for excessive worry. It is advised to drink plenty of water, rest adequately, and take appropriate antipyretic medication to manage the fever when it occurs. Additionally, antiviral medications like Qingkailing or antiviral oral solutions can be used for antiviral treatment. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)