Can you get the flu again after having had it once?
Disease description:
Doctor, my husband and I have been very troubled recently. My husband caught the flu not long ago, which really exhausted our whole family. Now that he has finally recovered, we are still very anxious, fearing that he might get it again. How does the flu actually work? Once you've had it, can you get it again?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
Influenza A, also known as type A flu, is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza A virus. Even after having had influenza A, there remains a possibility of reinfection.
The characteristics of the influenza A virus determine this. Influenza A has many subtypes, such as H1N1 and H3N2. After infection with influenza A, the immune system quickly responds and produces antibodies specific to the subtype of virus causing the infection. During the period these antibodies remain in the body, the person has a certain level of resistance against viruses of the same subtype. However, antibody levels gradually decline over time, and the protective effect weakens accordingly.
In addition, there is no cross-immunity between different subtypes of the influenza A virus. Therefore, if exposed to another subtype of influenza A virus, a person can still become infected. To prevent reinfection, it is important to maintain good personal hygiene habits in daily life, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding touching the mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands. During peak influenza A seasons, it is advisable to avoid crowded and poorly ventilated places as much as possible. When it is necessary to visit such places, wearing a mask properly is recommended. At the same time, strengthening one's own immunity through adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and moderate exercise is also essential.
