The flu has many different strains. The three main influenza viruses are A, B, and C. Types A and B are the common types of flu that occur during the winter months, although Type B can occur any time during the year. The symptoms of these types of flu are similar. In some cases, Type B symptoms may be milder then with Type A. However, influenza B is still serious. You can contract the flu if you are exposed to someone who is sick and is coughing or sneezing. You can also be infected by touching a surface the virus is on. Because the flu is contagious you need to watch for symptoms and then take steps to not infect others.
Immediate Symptoms
Symptoms of the Type B flu usually come on suddenly and the initial symptoms last about four to seven days, according to the National Institutes of Health. You may develop a fever between 102 and 106 degrees F . In addition, you may have general body aches, fatigue and chills. You may also feel nauseous, start vomiting and have diarrhea.
Additional Symptoms
Other common symptoms of Type B flu include a dry cough, runny nose, headache, dizziness and sore throat. Your muscles may feel stiff, you may not feel like eating and you can become congested. In addition, symptoms from other medical conditions you have may get worse. For some, these symptoms last about one week, while others can feel sick and have symptoms for several weeks.
Complications
If your case of the flu becomes severe you may have to be hospitalized, notes the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. It can turn into pneumonia or you may develop a serious bacterial infection. Watch for signs of earaches, sinus infections and a worsening of symptoms of the flu or other conditions you may have. This is especially critical for children under the age of 2, those over age 65 or in someone whose immune system is compromised.
Severe Symptoms
You should contact your doctor if you have a very high and/or prolonged fever, bluish skin, chest pain, fainting, dehydration, fast shallow breathing or trouble breathing. If a child has the flu, call your pediatrician if your child has trouble waking up, is extremely irritable or has seizures.
