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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between H1N1 and H3N2?

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H1N1 and H3N2 are both subtypes of the Influenza A virus, but they have some differences in terms of symptoms and severity. The main differences between H1N1 and H3N2 are:

  1. Symptoms: H3N2 infection is more severe than H1N1, particularly in terms of fever, leukopenia, and C-reactive protein. Myalgia, cough, and sore throat are more commonly manifested in the H1N1-dominant season compared to the H3N2-dominant season. Gastrointestinal symptoms are more common in influenza B.
  2. Subtype: H1N1 and H3N2 are two different subtypes of the Influenza A virus, which are classified based on their surface proteins, hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). There are 18 different HA subtypes and 11 different NA subtypes.

Despite these differences, both H1N1 and H3N2 can cause mild to severe symptoms, and in some cases, complications such as pneumonia or respiratory failure. It is essential to take precautions, such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene, to minimize the risk of contracting either of these infections.

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  • What is the Difference Between H1N1 and H3N2?
  • Comparative Table: H1N1 vs H3N2

    • Comparative Table: H1N1 vs H3N2

    Here is a table comparing the differences between H1N1 and H3N2 influenza subtypes:

    Feature H1N1 H3N2
    Symptoms More commonly manifests as myalgia, cough, and sore throat More severe, particularly fever, and higher average body temperature
    Prevalence Relatively common and severe in Asia More prevalent and severe in Europe
    Vaccine Included in the current vaccine along with H3N2 and one Influenza B strain Included in the current vaccine along with H1N1 and one Influenza B strain
    Antigenic Properties Antigenically distinct from H3N2 Antigenically distinct from H1N1
    Genetic Changes Genetically similar to the pandemic 2009 H1N1 virus Forms many separate, genetically different clades that continue to co-circulate

    Please note that these differences are not exhaustive and may vary depending on the specific strains and seasons. Further research is needed to better understand the distinctions between H1N1 and H3N2 influenza subtypes.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.