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Recovering from the flu can seem like a miracle. The constant coughing, sneezing, and fever spikes can get tiring really fast. Pair that with the signature body aches, and you’ve got yourself a classic case of “I hate this world” syndrome. That is why it can feel so liberating to bounce back from the sickness. After all, you can’t get the flu twice in a year, can you?

Well, the sad news is, you can. Given the different types of viruses floating in the air, it’s not uncommon to get hit by influenza more than once in the same season.

But why exactly does this happen? Is your immune system that weak, or is there another reason for the bacterial attack? To find out, carry on reading.

Can You Get The Flu Twice After Just Having It?

Yes, it is possible to get the flu twice a year. Even if you just recovered from its nasty symptoms, you can get hit by the virus again. This happens because there are multiple strains of the virus in the air, present at all times.

Moreover, influenza is divided into two types: A and B.

So, if you get infected by influenza A, there is a high chance you can get influenza B too.

However, suffering from influenza A isn’t all that bad; there is at least some good to it because when you get influenza A, your body automatically creates antibodies to fight against the attack. This means you won’t be able to get influenza A again. Although these antibodies don’t offer protection against influenza B, that’s okay. The severity of influenza B’s symptoms is not nearly as bad, so you can heal from it much faster — given that proper care is taken.

How Long Are You Immune To The Flu After Recovering?

Once the antibodies for influenza develop in your body, you can fight off its attacks for about a year. However, in order to keep the viral infections at bay, your immune system must be healthy and thriving. Otherwise, it could put you at risk for another infection.

It is due to this reason doctors recommend getting a flu shot on an annual basis. Anyone older than 6 months is required to get influenza vaccination every year. This way, you can keep your immune levels high without getting hit by the flu twice in the same season.

Flu Prevention Tips

If you do not want to go through the hurdles of a runny nose, fever, coughing, and aching muscles, follow the tips mentioned below to keep the influenza attack at bay:

  • Get an annual flu shot.
  • Wash your hands with soap for 20 whole seconds.
  • Avoid going out in public when feeling sick.
  • Try not to touch your face.
  • Wear a protective face mask.
  • Keep a hand sanitizer with you at all times.
  • Drink a lot of water and other liquids.

Get Vaccinated Today!

Given the rapid increase of viruses, escaping their hold is not as easy, which means you can get the flu twice a year if you are not careful. However, to counterattack the effects and avoid infection, it is vital to get an annual influenza vaccination.

To build up your body’s defense system, head over to Sharaf Diwan, MD and get your influenza shot today! For more information, call (832) 604-0005 or visit 18220 TX-249 #230, Houston, TX 77070. We’re located at the Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital.