Influenza B, which the Centers for Disease Control says can be severe in children, has been circulating earlier than usual this year.

Published: March 5, 2020 | Updated: November 3, 2022

Two forms of influenza typically circulate each season: influenza A and influenza B, which according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can be severe in children.

The flu vaccine typically protects against strains of both influenza A and influenza B strain. Because flu viruses mutate from the time the vaccine is configured, the flu shot isn’t 100% effective. Still, the flu shot and good hygiene are your best protection against the flu, and the CDC advises that everyone age 6 months and older should get the vaccine.

In recent years, according to the CDC, more pediatric fatalities have been attributed to influenza B than in the broader population.

“A child with suspected flu should see a health care provider. It is important to monitor the child’s symptoms and be on the lookout for complications,” said Mark A. Brockman Jr., M.D., pediatrician with Norton Children’s Medical Group – Iroquois.

The difference between influenza A and B

• Influenza A is usually the more common form of the virus and tends to circulate early in the season, while influenza B is normally less common and shows up late in the season.
• Influenza B in recent years has been disproportionately fatal in children, according to the CDC.
• Because influenza A can spread from animals to humans, it can cause pandemics. Influenza B is also very contagious, but only spreads between humans.
• Influenza B can be more common and more severe than influenza A in children. In the population as a whole, influenza A tends to be milder.
• Both strains are transmitted mainly by respiratory droplets from coughing and contact with an infected person.

Read more

A severe flu season south of the equator raises concerns for 2022-2023 flu season

Flu symptoms

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headache
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Sometimes diarrhea and vomiting