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Types of Flu Viruses

While many know it solely as "the flu," there are actually many types and subtypes of the influenza virus, all of which can cause the respiratory symptoms that result in missed time from school and work. While new strains typically appear every year, each flu case falls into one of several flu subtypes, such as influenza A, avian flu, or others listed below.

  1. Influenza A

    • Influenza A is considered the most common type of flu and is the typical source of regular flu outbreaks. Influenza A has 16 subtypes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Influenza A can cause a pandemic, which means a wide-scale infection that crosses a wide geographic spectrum. Only strains of this type of influenza are able to infect birds as well as humans.

    Influenza B

    • While these viruses are not broken down into subtypes, they are also common strains of flu that can cause epidemics, but not pandemics. Type B influenzas are found widely in humans and contribute each year to many diagnosed cases. A form of influenza B is often included in the annual flu vaccine in order to prevent flu's onset.

    Influenza C

    • Influenza C tends to cause less severe infections in the body and is not a cause of epidemics or outbreaks. This type of flu rarely infects people; instead, it affects animals. Because the virus causes more mild symptoms, it is often confused with a cold. Symptoms may include a sore throat, frequent cough, or mild difficulty breathing.

    H1N1 (Swine) Flu

    • A subtype of influenza A, H1N1 flu was a disease that had formerly been found only in pigs until 2009 when an outbreak occurred. The disease is considered extremely contagious and can in some cases prove deadly. Antiviral drugs, such as Tamiflu or Relenza, may help H1N1 symptoms subside. For more information on current guidelines and recommendations concerning the swine flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov.

    Avian Flu

    • Avian, or bird, flu is named for the fact that birds are the natural carriers of the disease. The avian flu is a subtype of influenza A, and the virus is highly contagious, which is why it is a chief cause of concern. In addition to more standard flu symptoms, such as fever, chills, congestion and headaches, the avian flu can lead to serious conditions such as eye infections, pneumonia and severe respiratory problems. While no cure exists for the avian flu, it is important to seek treatment as quickly as possible if you are exhibiting such symptoms.

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