Influenza Type B: What You Need to Know About Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Symptoms of Influenza B

The symptoms of influenza B often resemble those of a cold but usually come on more suddenly and are more intense. In Poland, where cold and flu season overlap, it’s important to know the difference so you can act quickly.

Common signs of influenza type B include:

• High fever (sometimes over 39°C)
• Persistent cough
• Fatigue and weakness
• Muscle and body aches
• Chills and headaches
• Sore throat and runny nose

In children, additional gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea may also occur.

⚠️ If your symptoms are severe or don’t improve after a few days, consult an expert doctor or visit your local NFZ clinic.

How Long Does Influenza B Last?

On average, influenza B lasts between 2 to 8 days, but fatigue and cough can linger for weeks. Most people in Poland recover with rest and fluids, but the course of the illness can vary depending on age and health status. You should seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms worsen after 3 – 4 days
• You have a high fever for more than 5 days
• You can feel chest pain or shortness of breath.

Taking action early can prevent more serious issues, especially in vulnerable individuals.

Is Influenza A or B Worse to Get?

While both types can cause serious illness, the severity of influenza A or B largely depends on the person’s health. Influenza A is more likely to cause large outbreaks, but influenza B can be just as severe, especially in children.

The misconception that influenza B is “milder” is not entirely accurate. In fact, some years, type B is the dominant circulating strain in Poland, and its impact on hospitals and clinics is just as significant.

What If Influenza B is Positive?

If you or your child tests positive for influenza B in Poland, whether through a pharmacy test (test na grypę w aptece Polska) or a clinic don’t panic. The first step is to isolate it to prevent spreading the virus!

Here’s what you should do if you test positive:

• Stay home and rest for 5–7 days or some more.
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Use fever-reducing medications (but avoid aspirin for children)
• Consider antivirals especially if prescribed within 48 hours

⚠️ Tamiflu is available by prescription in Poland and can help shorten recovery time if started early.

If you’re unsure whether to take medication, always consult an expert doctor. Polish healthcare providers can guide you based on your age, risk factors, and symptom severity.