Influenza, also known as the flu, is classified into three types, A, B and C, reports the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Type A influenza is the most severe and is found in animals and humans. Type B influenza is found in only humans. Type C influenza is the least severe and can be found in humans, pigs and dogs. A combination of these strains make up the seasonal influenza, H1N1 influenza and the avian influenza.
Seasonal Influenza
Seasonal Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that occurs every year. The seasonal influenza season in the United States begins in October and peaks between December and March. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seasonal influenza is spread from person to person via droplets from the sick person to the healthy person. Signs and symptoms can include fatigue, body aches, fever, chills, runny or stuffy nose, headaches and sore throat. Vomiting and diarrhea are rare, but can occur in children. Practicing good hand hygiene throughout the day, avoiding contact with sick people, eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest and getting the flu shot can help prevent a person from getting sick.
H1N1
The H1N1 virus was first detected in the United States in April 2009, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The H1N1 virus, also called "swine flu," is a virus that is spread from person to person via coughing and sneezing. A person can also contract H1N1 from touching a surface that has been infected with the virus and then touching his eyes, nose or mouth. Signs and symptoms include fever, cough, body aches, fatigue, headache and a runny or stuffy nose. Some people experience respiratory symptoms and no fever with H1N1. The H1N1 vaccination can help prevent people from contracting the virus. Practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding contact with sick people and avoiding touching the eyes, nose or mouth are ways to prevent getting sick.
Avian Influenza
Avian flu, also known as "bird flu," is a contagious virus that is spread through birds. According to the World Health Organization, avian flu generally is not passed on to humans; however, there have been cases of human infection. People who work closely with birds are more likely to get sick. Signs and symptoms can include fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, chest pain, body aches, fatigue, respiratory problems and bleeding from the gums and nose has been reported in some cases. Oseltamivir, also known as Tamiflu, can help shorten the duration and lessen the severity of the virus; however, the best outcomes have occurred when the patient receives the drug within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
