Influenza A or seasonal: what are the differences?

The two flu spread the same way (for microdroplets contaminated). But influenza A is more virulent. The results of a study show that influenza A is also more contagious. Its spread is faster.

People risk

Seasonal Flu. Each year, influenza epidemics can seriously affect all age groups, but the highest risk of complications for children under two years old, adults over 65 and people with certain chronic diseases.

Influenza A. The H1N1 virus, in addition to people considered at risk (children, elderly, pregnant women and people with certain diseases), also falls on the young and healthy.

Symptoms

The two flu symptoms are quite similar: fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, sneezing, sore throat and cough.

Seasonal Flu. The incubation period (time lag between the start of disease and the onset of symptoms) usually lasts between 24 and 48 hours. The patient remains infectious for an average of 6 days. Most people recover without needing treatment. But the flu can cause serious illness or death among frail people.

Influenza A. We know little yet about the evolution of the disease. According to initial findings, the incubation time is slightly longer than for seasonal influenza, with an average estimated of 5 days. Influenza A requires treatment. Studies suggest that the virus could persist in the nose or throat for a few days, making risk of contagination longer, even after cessation of symptoms.

Vaccination

Seasonal Flu. The vaccine is already available. Despite the emergence of influenza A, health officials still recommend that patients at risk should get vaccinated against seasonal influenza "as soon as possible." In the elderly, vaccination can reduce mortality rate up to 80% .

Influenza A. The vaccine against seasonal influenza will not protect from the virus H1N1. But several vaccines made in different laboratories, have been developed and will be available soon.

Authorities recommend getting vaccinated against seasonal flu first, followed by the vaccine against flu A. It takes at least 21 days between the two.

• How to Avoid Allergies
• Know about Various Ear Diseases
• COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Myopathy: The promise of pharmacogenetics
• A supergonococci resistant to all common antibiotics
• E.coli: Undercooked meat is the main source
• Malaria: A promising discovery
• Alzheimer's: The real signals for a correct diagnosis