Flu vaccine vs Natural immunity

Influenza (Flu) season may vary each year. According to the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Associations Malaysia president Dr Shanmuganathan, the flu season peaks in May to July and November to January. With that in mind, it is recommended that Malaysian netizens are to be vaccinated against the flu starting from Mid September to October as it takes at least 2 weeks to build your immunity after getting the flu shot.

According to our Health Ministry, there has been a sharp decline in the reported influenza cases in 2023 compared to previous years. However, he still urges everyone to practice the necessary measures against it as once infected, it can be quite serious. 

In the battle against the influenza virus, there are generally two primary modes of protection: the flu vaccine as well as natural immunity acquired from a previous infection. Each approach has its own set of advantages and considerations. In this article, let us delve into the differences between the two so you will be able to make an informed decision about how to safeguard yourself and your community from the flu.

What is Influenza (Flu)?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can affect people of all ages and can lead to a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Symptoms that may indicate the flu are:

•  High fever
•  Chills
•  Dry cough 
•  Sore throat
•  Runny or stuffy nose
•  Muscle aches and pain
•  Fatigue and weakness

Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can also occur, especially in children.

It is worth noting that influenza is highly contagious and primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face, particularly the mouth, nose, or eyes. 

Flu Vaccine vs Natural Immunity

Is the annual flu vaccine needed?

Yes. The annual flu shot only offers protection against the flu virus for up to 6 months. Additionally, we also learnt that flu strains differ every year so the vaccination you got last year may not be as effective to combat this year’s influenza strain. 

In A Nutshell

While natural immunity can provide some level of protection, it carries the risk of enduring the full-blown flu and may not guard against all strains of the virus. The flu vaccine, on the other hand, offers a safer and more reliable means of protection. It is especially imperative for high-risk individuals and plays a crucial role in community-wide defense against the flu. In general, it is recommended that everyone aged six months and older receive an annual flu vaccine, with exceptions for those with specific medical contraindications. Making an informed choice between the flu vaccine and natural immunity can help you stay healthier and contribute to the well-being of your community during flu season. 

This article is written by Janelle Leong, Bpharm(Hons) (DOC2US),
reviewed by Dr. Lee Siew Ling, MD (DOC2US). 

References

1. https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-long-does-a-flu-shot-last-770538#:~:text=The%20annual%20flu%20shot%20protects,preferably%20in%20September%20or%20October. 
2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/antibodies-from-vaccines-and-from-natural-infection-5092564 
3. https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/vaccine-education-center/vaccine-safety/immune-system-and-health#:~:text=infection%20versus%20immunization-,Is%20natural%20infection%20better%20than%20immunization%3F,occurs%20only%20after%20several%20doses. 
4. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm#:~:text=Treating%20Flu-,What%20is%20Influenza%20(Flu)%3F,a%20flu%20vaccine%20each%20year. 

Written by

Janelle Leong, Bpharm(Hons) DOC2US