Influenza C viruses refer to a group of viruses that belong to the family Orthomyxoviridae and are responsible for causing the respiratory illness known as influenza C. These viruses primarily affect humans, but have also been found to infect pigs and dogs.
Unlike influenza A and B viruses, which cause seasonal influenza outbreaks, influenza C viruses generally result in mild respiratory symptoms or no symptoms at all. They are less commonly reported and do not cause widespread epidemics or pandemics like their counterparts. Influenza C viruses are characterized by their single-stranded RNA genome and their surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin-esterase-fusion (HEF). The HEF protein facilitates viral entry into host cells and is distinct from the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) proteins found in influenza A and B viruses.
Although influenza C viruses are less severe, they can still contribute to respiratory infections, particularly in young children. They are transmitted through respiratory droplets, similar to other influenza viruses, and can spread easily in crowded areas such as schools or households. Symptoms of influenza C infection may include cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, and mild fever. In general, the illness resolves within a week, and complications tend to be rare.
In conclusion, influenza C viruses are a type of RNA virus that cause mild respiratory infections in humans, typically resulting in a mild illness similar to the common cold. While they are less severe than influenza A and B viruses, they still present a public health concern due to their ability to spread and cause illness, particularly among vulnerable populations such as young children.
