Do I need to get the influenza A vaccine every year?

Mar 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

Whether the influenza A vaccine needs to be administered annually depends on an individual's physical condition. Individuals with strong constitutions who develop long-lasting antibodies after vaccination may not need annual vaccination. However, those with weaker constitutions, short-lived antibodies, or who are otherwise susceptible should be vaccinated annually to enhance antibody levels and reduce the risk of infection. Vaccination should be performed under a doctor's guidance, and appropriate increases in physical activity are also recommended.

Generally speaking, "Jia Liu" refers to influenza A, and "da" refers to vaccination. Whether the influenza A vaccine needs to be administered annually mainly depends on an individual's health condition. If one has strong immunity and sufficient protective antibodies, making infection with influenza A unlikely, annual vaccination generally is not necessary. However, if one's immunity is weak and protective antibodies are low, making infection with influenza A more likely, vaccination may be needed annually. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If an individual has good physical health and is not easily infected by the influenza A virus, and if long-lasting antibodies have been produced in the body after previous influenza A vaccinations, and medical checkups show sufficiently high levels of protective antibodies, then the influenza A vaccine typically does not need to be given annually. One can choose to receive the vaccine again only after antibody levels have weakened.

However, some individuals have weaker constitutions. Even after receiving the influenza A vaccine previously, they may be unable to produce long-lasting antibodies. When immunity is low, they are highly susceptible to infection with the influenza A virus. In such cases, annual vaccination is advisable until protective antibodies are strengthened and the risk of infection decreases, after which the vaccination frequency may be adjusted.

It should be noted that regardless of the situation, administration of the influenza A vaccine should be conducted under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, regular physical exercise should be moderately increased in daily life to strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of infection.

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When should children receive the influenza vaccine?

The appropriate age for children to receive the influenza A vaccine is 6 months and above. Children between 6 months and 3 years old can receive the vaccine every six months, and after 3 years of age, vaccination should be administered annually during flu season based on immune status. Before vaccination, ensure the child has no contraindications or allergies. After vaccination, regular observation is necessary, proper local care should be provided, and early exposure to water at the injection site should be avoided to prevent interference with recovery.

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Is the H1N1 flu vaccine effective for life?

The influenza A vaccine can induce an immune response in the human body after administration, thereby reducing the risk of infection. However, this vaccine does not provide lifelong immunity. Generally, the immune protection lasts from six months to one year, although the exact duration may vary depending on individual constitution, age, season, and other factors. If there is concern about infection, a booster shot can be administered, or immunity can be enhanced through exercise, diet, and other lifestyle adjustments.

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Is it necessary to get vaccinated against H1N1 influenza?

The H1N1 influenza vaccine is generally recommended, but the decision to receive it should be based on individual circumstances. In daily life, preventive measures such as maintaining personal hygiene, ensuring indoor ventilation, and avoiding contact with sources of infection are also important. If you have any doubts about whether to get the H1N1 vaccine, consult a doctor promptly to receive proper guidance and advice.