Influenza C: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Bhima Shankar , Pulmonologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Influenza C is a type of flu virus that can cause illness in humans. It is less common than influenza A and B. Influenza C generally causes milder symptoms compared to the other types of flu. However, it can still impact a person's health by causing respiratory problems, leading to discomfort and potential complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

What Are the Types of Influenza Viruses?

Influenza C is a type of flu virus that affects humans. It is less common and generally causes milder symptoms compared to other strains of influenza. Like other types of flu, influenza C can lead to respiratory symptoms such as coughing, fever, and body aches.

However, it is not typically associated with severe outbreaks or epidemics. Influenza C is divided into different forms based on variations in its genetic makeup, which can impact how the virus spreads and the severity of the illness it causes.

Influenza A: Common type of flu that infects humans, birds, and other animals. It is known for causing seasonal flu outbreaks and occasional pandemics.
Influenza B: Typically less severe than Influenza A, this strain only infects humans. It can also cause seasonal flu outbreaks, but not pandemics.
Influenza C: Generally milder than Influenza A and B, this type of flu mainly affects children. Symptoms are usually mild and do not lead to widespread outbreaks.
Influenza D: Primarily affects cattle and is not known to infect humans easily. It is not a common cause of flu in humans but is being studied for its potential to jump species.
Influenza A/H1N1: A subtype of Influenza A that caused the 2009 flu pandemic. It continues to circulate seasonally as a common strain of the flu virus.

What Are the Symptoms of Influenza C?

Influenza C typically presents with symptoms that are similar to other strains of the flu. These symptoms generally include respiratory issues, fever, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Muscle aches
Fatigue
Runny or stuffy nose
Headache
Chills
Loss of appetite

What Causes Influenza C?

Influenza C is caused by a specific type of influenza virus. Unlike other flu viruses, influenza C is less common and typically causes milder respiratory symptoms. Influenza C is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

While less severe than other types of influenza, it can still lead to illness, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. It is important to practice good hygiene and take preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated, to reduce the risk of contracting influenza C.

Influenza C is caused by an influenza C virus infection.
It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Close contact with infected individuals can also lead to contracting the virus.
Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands frequently, can contribute to the spread of influenza C.

When Should You See a Doctor for Influenza C?

Consult a Pulmonologist if flu symptoms are severe, persist for several days, or worsen over time. Early medical evaluation is especially important for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.

High fever that does not improve
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Persistent cough or chest pain
Symptoms lasting longer than a week or worsening
Severe dehydration or inability to drink fluids
Flu symptoms in infants, older adults, or immunocompromised individuals

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How Is Influenza C Diagnosed?

Influenza C is typically diagnosed by a healthcare provider based on symptoms and a physical examination. The doctor may also consider the patient's medical history and any potential exposure to the virus. Diagnostic tests may be conducted to confirm the presence of the influenza C virus.

These tests can help differentiate influenza C from other respiratory infections and provide guidance on appropriate treatment. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care if you suspect you have influenza C.

Rapid influenza diagnostic tests
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests
Viral culture
Serology testing
Chest Xray (for complications)

How Is Influenza C Treated?

Influenza C is a less common type of flu virus that typically causes milder symptoms compared to other strains. Treatment for influenza C focuses on managing symptoms and allowing the body to fight off the infection.

Antiviral Medications: Prescription antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir can help reduce the severity and duration of influenza symptoms when taken within the first 48 hours of illness onset.
Rest and Hydration: Adequate rest and staying wellhydrated are essential to support the body's immune response and promote recovery from influenza.
Symptomatic Relief: Overthecounter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate fever, body aches, and other discomfort associated with influenza.
Influenza Vaccination: Annual influenza vaccination is recommended to prevent influenza infection and reduce the risk of severe complications, especially for highrisk individuals.
Good Hygiene Practices: Practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, can help prevent the spread of influenza.

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What Are the Risk Factors for Influenza C?

Influenza C, like other types of flu, has certain factors that can increase the chances of getting sick. These risk factors can make individuals more vulnerable to the virus and its complications. By being aware of these factors, people can take steps to protect themselves and others during flu season.

Age (children under 5 and adults over 65)
Chronic medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
Pregnancy
Weakened immune system
Obesity
Smoking
Living in crowded conditions
Healthcare workers
Traveling to regions with high flu activity

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How serious is influenza C?

Influenza C usually causes a mild respiratory infection, especially in children. Severe illness is uncommon.

2. What is the difference between influenza A, B, and C?

Influenza A and B commonly cause seasonal flu outbreaks and can cause severe illness. Influenza C usually causes milder illness and does not commonly cause seasonal epidemics.

3. How is influenza C transmitted?

Influenza C spreads mainly through respiratory droplets and close contact with an infected person, such as through coughing or sneezing.

4. How is influenza C treated?

Treatment is usually supportive, including rest, fluids, and medicines to relieve fever or pain. Most people recover without specific antiviral treatment.