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Prognosis of Influenza Type B

Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by a virus. While there are several types, each type has similar symptoms, and each has a potential to cause life-threatening complications.

  1. Types

    • The most common type of flu is the Type A flu, which includes variations such as the H1N1 swine flu. Other types include Type B and Type C.

    Effects

    • According to Flu Facts, the Type B flu usually produces milder symptoms than Type A flu. Possible symptoms include coughing, stuffy nose, runny nose, sore throat, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches and appetite loss.

    Complications

    • Pneumonia is a possible complication associated with Type B influenza. Pneumonia can be life-threatening in young children, the elderly and those with other serious health conditions.

    Treatments

    • Type B influenza is treated with antiviral medications, rest and increased fluid consumption.

    Warning

    • According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 36,000 people in the U.S. die each year due to flu complications. This estimation includes all types of flu, not just Type B flu.

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