Introduction
Influenza A, also known as the flu, is a highly contagious illness caused by the influenza virus. One common myth that circulates about the flu is that you can’t get it twice. However, is this really true? In this article, we’ll delve into the truth and myths surrounding reinfection with influenza A, helping you better understand the virus and how it affects your body.
The Truth About Getting Influenza A Twice: What You Need to Know
You may have heard people say that you can’t get the flu twice, but unfortunately, this is not true. It is definitely possible to get influenza A more than once in a lifetime.
One reason for the misconception that you can only get the flu once might be that getting the flu once does offer some immunity to the specific strain of the virus you were infected with. However, this immunity is not foolproof, and you can still get the flu again.
Can You Really Get the Flu Twice? Here’s What Experts Say
We spoke with several medical professionals to understand more about the possibility of getting influenza A twice. According to Dr. Rachel Miller from New York Presbyterian, “Absolutely, you can get the flu twice. In fact, it’s not uncommon to get the flu several times throughout your life.”
Medical studies confirm this as well. One study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that people can be infected with the flu multiple times in a single season.
Understanding Influenza A and the Possibility of Reinfection
Influenza A is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms of the flu can range from mild to severe, and can even lead to hospitalization or death in some cases.
The body responds to the flu virus by developing antibodies, which can help protect against future infections from the same strain of the virus. However, the antibodies that are produced after getting the flu are not always strong enough to offer complete protection, and new strains of the virus may not trigger the same antibodies.
Additionally, the flu virus is constantly mutating, which means new strains can emerge each year, making it difficult for the body to develop a strong immunity to all types of flu viruses.
Why Getting Influenza A More Than Once is Possible: Explained
Several factors can contribute to getting influenza A more than once. As mentioned earlier, new strains of the virus evolve each year, making it possible to become infected with a different strain than the one you were previously infected with.
Additionally, age, health status, and immune function can all play a role in reinfection with the flu. People who are older, have weakened immune systems, or have underlying health conditions may be more susceptible to serious complications from the flu, and may also be at higher risk for reinfection.
Hacking the Flu: What to Do if You Think You’ve Got it Twice
While getting the flu twice is not ideal, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of reinfection. One of the most important things you can do is to practice good hygiene habits, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
Additionally, getting an annual flu shot can help protect against many strains of the virus, reducing your risk of infection. If you do begin experiencing flu-like symptoms again, it’s important to stay home and rest, staying hydrated and taking over-the-counter medications to relieve your symptoms. If your symptoms are severe or if you are at high risk for complications, seek medical attention promptly.
Conclusion
In summary, it is possible to get influenza A more than once, despite common misconceptions that you can’t. While getting the flu twice is not ideal, taking steps to boost your immune system and prevent the spread of the virus can help reduce your risk of reinfection. If you’re unsure how to best protect yourself against the flu, speak with a medical professional for guidance and advice.
