Every year, when flu season arrives, many people take preventative measures including getting vaccinated, washing their hands often, and avoiding close contact with sick people. But a crucial query frequently comes up: Is it possible to contract the flu twice in a single season? Unexpectedly, the response is yes.
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant, Sharda Hospital - Noida, explained why is it possible to get flu twice and shared the risk factors behind reinfection and preventive tips one must follow. Here is everything he shared with us.
Knowing About Influenza Strains
The influenza virus, which has several strains classified into categories A, B, C, and D, is the cause of the flu. Seasonal flu outbreaks are caused by influenza A and influenza B. Every year, new subtypes and mutations appear within these groups, resulting in a variety of strains that are circulating concurrently.
“It is possible to get infected with one strain early in the season and then get infected with another strain later on because of these variances.” Dr Srivastav explained. This implies that your immune system might not be completely ready for a new strain of the virus, even if you have already had the flu once.
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Vaccination and Immunity
“Your body builds protection against the particular strain of the flu after you recover from it. This protection does not, however, cover other strains that may be in circulation. Because of this, flu shots are developed every year to protect against several types that are expected to be common during a certain season,” he added.
Therefore, if you are exposed to a strain of the flu that was not covered in that year's vaccine, you could still become ill even if you have had the vaccination. Furthermore, while the flu vaccine does not provide 100% protection, it does considerably lessen the intensity and length of symptoms in the event of infection.
Reinfection Risk Factors
According to Dr Srivastav, the following two variables may make it more likely that you will contract the flu twice in a single season:
1. Weakened Immune System
People who have compromised immune systems as a result of stress, sleep deprivation, or underlying medical disorders are more susceptible to reinfection.
2. High Exposure Levels
Individuals who work in crowded settings, healthcare facilities, or educational institutions are more likely to experience several strains.
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Preventive Actions
Take into account the following preventive measures to reduce your chance of getting the flu twice:
1. Vaccinate
One of the best methods to lower your risk of developing a serious disease is to be vaccinated against the flu.
2. Maintain Good Hygiene
You can stop the spread of viruses by washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, and covering your coughs and sneezes.
3. Strengthen Your Immune System
Eating a balanced diet, exercising frequently, getting adequate sleep, and controlling stress all help to strengthen your immune system.
4. Keep Up
To stay ahead of possible outbreaks, keep an eye on flu patterns and public health advice throughout the season.
Bottomline
Because of the diversity of influenza strains that are circulating, getting the flu more than once throughout a season may seem unfair, but it is a real risk. You can lower your risk of reinfection and maintain your health throughout flu season by being aware of how the virus functions and taking preventative action. To choose the best course of action, speak with a healthcare provider if you encounter flu-like symptoms more than once.