Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

What types of viruses cause flu?

April 26, 2017cause causes cold or flu facts flu flu prevention flu symptoms types viruses

0

Posted

What types of viruses cause flu?

1 Answer

0

Posted

The flu is actually very different from a cold. While more than 100 different viruses can cause a cold, only influenza virus types A, B, and C cause the flu. Type A and B viruses are responsible for the large flu epidemics. Type C flu virus is more stable and usually causes milder respiratory symptoms. While the flu vaccine can help protect you from type A and B flu viruses, there is no immunization or flu shot for type C virus. Type A flu virus is divided into different subtypes based on the chemical structure of the virus. Type B flu virus is not divided into subtypes. Both type A and type B flu viruses are responsible for the seasonal outbreaks of flu. Type A flu viruses are found in many different animals, including ducks, chickens, pigs, whales, horses, and seals. Influenza B viruses circulate widely only among humans.