Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects millions of people each year. While many people refer to the flu as a single illness, there are actually different types, including flu A and flu B. Both types can cause significant symptoms and disrupt daily life, but they differ in how they spread, how severe they can be, and who they tend to affect. Understanding the differences between flu A and flu B can help you recognize symptoms earlier and decide when medical care is necessary.
For same-day flu treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver West Colfax. Our board-certified medical providers are available to treat your symptoms 7 days a week. Simply walk in or book your visit below!
What is Flu A?
Flu A is the most common type of influenza and is responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks and pandemics. It infects both humans and animals and mutates frequently, which is why new flu strains appear each year. Because flu A strains change rapidly, they often cause more widespread illness and can lead to more severe symptoms, especially in high-risk populations.
What is Flu B?
Flu B primarily affects humans and tends to circulate later in the flu season. It does not mutate as quickly as flu A and is not associated with pandemics. However, flu B can still cause serious illness, particularly in children and adolescents. While flu B is often considered milder, it can still lead to complications and should not be underestimated.
Symptoms of Flu A vs. Flu B
Flu A and B share many symptoms, making them difficult to distinguish without testing. Common symptoms of both types include:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Chills and sweating
- Body aches and muscle pain
- Headache
- Fatigue and weakness
- Cough and sore throat
- Nasal congestion
Flu A is more commonly associated with higher fevers, more intense body aches, and a greater risk of complications. However flu B may present with similar symptoms, more gastrointestinal symptoms in children, and slightly longer recovery time in some cases. The severity of symptoms varies based on age, immune health, and underlying medical conditions rather than flu type alone.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Flu A and Flu B
The only reliable way to distinguish flu A from flu B is through medical testing. Rapid flu tests, commonly used in urgent care, can identify the flu type and guide treatment decisions. Early diagnosis is important because antiviral medications are the most effective when started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. Treatment is similar for both types and may include antiviral medications, rest and hydration, fever reducers and pain relievers, as well as cough and symptom management. Antibiotics are not effective against viral flu infections unless a bacterial complication develops.
You should visit urgent care if you experience:
- High fever that doesn’t improve
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Severe or worsening symptoms
- Persistent vomiting or dehydration
- Symptoms in high-risk individuals
Prompt care can help reduce symptom severity and prevent complications.
Need Flu Symptom Relief? Visit the Walk-In Clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Five Points
While flu A and flu B share many similarities, differences in severity, spread, and risk factors can impact how illness progresses. Both require proper care and monitoring. If flu symptoms develop, visiting an urgent care center can help ensure accurate diagnosis, timely treatment, and a smoother recovery. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver West Colfax! We provide affordable, high-quality care with no appointment needed. Just walk-in any day of the week. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about flu treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 480-1000.
