What is the Difference Between Flu and H1N1?

The flu, also known as influenza, is a viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs, which are part of the respiratory system. The viruses that cause influenza are divided into four categories: A, B, C, and D. H1N1 flu is a subtype of influenza A.

The main differences between flu and H1N1 flu are as follows:

• H1N1 flu is a subtype of influenza A: Influenza A is the most common type of influenza and is further divided into subtypes based on two proteins on the surface of the viruses, hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). H1N1 flu is one of these subtypes.
• Symptoms: While both flu and H1N1 flu share common symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue, H1N1 flu sometimes also includes diarrhea and vomiting as additional symptoms.
• Vaccination: Each year's flu vaccine includes varieties of influenza A (including H1N1 and H3N2) and influenza B strains. This means that the flu vaccine provides protection against H1N1 flu as well.

In summary, H1N1 flu is a specific subtype of influenza A, and while both share similar symptoms, H1N1 flu may have additional symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. The flu vaccine protects against both flu and H1N1 flu by including strains of influenza A and B in its formulation.

Comparative Table: Flu vs H1N1

The flu, also known as influenza, is a viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. It is caused by various types of influenza viruses, including influenza A, B, C, and D. H1N1 is a subtype of influenza A virus. Here is a table comparing the differences between the flu and H1N1:

It's important to note that the comparison above highlights the general differences between the flu and H1N1. The severity, symptoms, and transmission of the flu can vary greatly depending on the specific influenza subtype or strain causing the illness.