A comprehensive review of influenza B virus, its biological and clinical aspects

• Published in: Frontiers in microbiology Vol. 15; p. 1467029
• Main Authors: Ashraf, Muhammad Awais, Raza, Muhammad Asif, Amjad, Muhammad Nabeel, ud Din, Ghayyas, Yue, Lihuan, Shen, Bei, Chen, Lingdie, Dong, Wei, Xu, Huiting, Hu, Yihong
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Switzerland Frontiers Media S.A 04.09.2024
• Subjects: identification; immunity and antiviral strategies; influenza B virus; isolation; Microbiology; public health; immunity and antiviral strategies; isolation; identification; public health; influenza B virus
• ISSN: 1664-302X; 1664-302X
• DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1467029

Influenza B virus (IBV) stands as a paradox, often overshadowed by its more notorious counterpart, influenza A virus (IAV). Yet, it remains a captivating and elusive subject of scientific inquiry. Influenza B is important because it causes seasonal flu outbreaks that can lead to severe respiratory illnesses, including bronchitis, pneumonia, and exacerbations of chronic conditions like asthma. Limitations in the influenza B virus’s epidemiological, immunological, and etiological evolution must be addressed promptly. This comprehensive review covers evolutionary epidemiology and pathogenesis, host-virus interactions, viral isolation and propagation, advanced molecular detection assays, vaccine composition and no animal reservoir for influenza B virus. Complex viral etiology begins with intranasal transmission of influenza B virus with the release of a segmented RNA genome that attacks host cell machinery for transcription and translation within the nucleus and the release of viral progeny. Influenza B virus prevalence in domesticated and wild canines, sea mammals, and birds is frequent, yet there is no zoonosis. The periodic circulation of influenza B virus indicates a 1–3-year cycle for monophyletic strain replacement within the Victoria strain due to frequent antigenic drift in the HA near the receptor-binding site (RBS), while the antigenic stability of Yamagata viruses portrays a more conservative evolutionary pattern. Additionally, this article outlines contemporary antiviral strategies, including pharmacological interventions and vaccination efforts. This article serves as a resource for researchers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in the mysterious nature of the influenza B virus. It provides valuable insights and knowledge essential for comprehending and effectively countering this viral foe, which continues to pose a significant public health threat.