A Sneezing, Coughing, Feverish Flu Season: Why is it So Bad?
If you're feeling under the weather more than usual this season, it's not just in your head. The flu is spreading like wildfire across 45 states, with doctor visits for flu-like symptoms at an all-time high. But why is this year so different?
We delve into this question with epidemiologist Katelyn Jetelina, who joins us on this week's episode of Explain It to Me, Vox's weekly podcast. She sheds light on the annual rise of respiratory viruses, including the common cold, flu, Covid, and RSV, and how cold weather accelerates their spread.
The Flu's Unpredictable Nature
Flu season this year is particularly intriguing. Epidemiologists are concerned that it may be worse than previous years due to a specific strain, Influenza A H3N2, which mutated over the summer as it spread through Australia and the Southern Hemisphere. This mutation, from a J subclade to a K subclade, is a small but significant change.
Mutations are common with the flu, and it's known for its unpredictable nature. Flu can change through a 'shift', a major overhaul that occurs when two different flu viruses infect the same cell, creating a new virus. This type of shift can lead to pandemics, as our immune systems haven't encountered this version before.
However, what we're experiencing this winter is a 'drift', a smaller incremental change as the virus spreads. While it shouldn't cause panic, it means our current vaccines may recognize some but not all of the updated virus. This, coupled with the virus's ability to evade vaccines and prior immunity, results in more cases and severe illness among high-risk individuals.
The Flu Shot's Role
This explains why some, like you, got the flu shot but still contracted the flu. The flu shot is designed to prevent hospitalization and death, and it's important to remember that it doesn't guarantee protection against infection. Having the flu can still be unpleasant, but it helps avoid the worst outcomes.
Is it Too Late for a Flu Shot?
Absolutely not! There are several reasons why getting a flu shot now is still beneficial. Firstly, we haven't reached the peak of flu season yet, and there will be plenty of sickness around. Secondly, it takes about two weeks for your immune system to respond to the vaccine, so there's still time to be protected.
Additionally, multiple flu strains circulate, unlike Covid, where we often see one dominant strain. This means you could get infected with flu twice in one season. Getting vaccinated can protect against these other strains as well.
Other Viruses to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, it's not just the flu. Viruses thrive this time of year, and Covid cases are also on the rise. Another virus causing havoc is RSV, particularly among infants. We also have the common cold and norovirus, sometimes called stomach flu, which causes diarrhea and nausea and spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces or food.
Boosting Your Immune System: Fact or Fiction?
There are many rumors about boosting your immune system, but for the general population, dietary supplements and practices like vitamin C or D intake, cold plunges, nasal breathing, and saunas haven't been proven effective against respiratory viruses. The best approach is to give your immune system time to do its job through a balanced, nutrient-dense diet, adequate sleep, and proper hydration. Sleep is crucial as it's when the immune system repairs itself, and those who are sleep-deprived tend to get more colds.
So, what are your thoughts? Do you think we're doing enough to protect ourselves during this flu season? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!
