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CLEVELAND – As the cold and flu season unfolds, many individuals will inevitably encounter a virus, underscoring the importance of understanding how our bodies respond.
So, how does our immune system effectively work to safeguard our health against these ailments?
According to Michaela Gack, PhD, the Scientific Director of the Cleveland Clinic Florida Research and Innovation Center, the immune system engages in a protective battle against subsequent infections after we successfully fend off an initial virus.
“Whenever we encounter a second infection, these antibodies can be produced and thereby protect us, but there are some limitations,” emphasized Dr. Gack. “It only works if it’s the same virus or a very similar variant.”
Dr. Gack, an expert in immunology, highlighted that certain viruses exhibit minimal mutation rates, thereby providing us with long-lasting immunity following an initial encounter.
For example, if you’ve contracted chickenpox or received a vaccination for it, your immune system retains that memory for decades, effectively shielding you from future infections.
However, some viruses—such as influenza and COVID-19—mutate rapidly, complicating your immune system’s ability to recognize these variants due to their constant changes.
This phenomenon highlights the necessity of receiving annual flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, which are essential in the ongoing fight against these elusive viruses.
If the vaccine closely resembles the circulating virus, your immune system can identify it, granting you protection and potentially leading to milder symptoms in case of infection.
Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can enhance the functionality of your immune system overall.
“Staying healthy through proper nutrition and essential vitamins can contribute to possibly mitigating the severity of infections,” Dr. Gack explained. “But I also emphasize that there are limits to this; for example, if someone remains unvaccinated and contracts a flu infection.”
In her closing thoughts, Dr. Gack reminds us that even individuals in peak health can fall victim to viruses like the flu or COVID-19 and could experience serious illness; therefore, it’s crucial to take proactive measures for your health and ensure you stay up-to-date with vaccinations.
**Interview with Dr. Michaela Gack on the Immune System and Cold/Flu Season**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Gack. As we head into the cold and flu season, understanding our immune system has never been more crucial. Could you start by explaining how our immune system responds to infections?
**Dr. Gack:** Absolutely! Our immune system is like a protective army. When we encounter a virus, it springs into action to eliminate the invader. After successfully fighting off an infection, the immune system retains a memory of that virus in the form of antibodies. This memory allows us to respond more effectively to subsequent infections by the same virus or a closely related variant.
**Editor:** That’s fascinating! You mentioned the role of antibodies in protecting us from future infections. Are there any limitations to this protection?
**Dr. Gack:** Yes, there are limitations. The effectiveness of these antibodies largely depends on the similarity between the viruses. If the virus mutates significantly, the immunity we’ve built may not be as effective. For example, seasonal flu viruses change a lot each year, which is why we need annual vaccinations.
**Editor:** Interesting. Could you give us an example of a virus where we maintain long-lasting immunity after an initial infection?
**Dr. Gack:** Certainly! Chickenpox is a great example. Once you’ve contracted chickenpox or received the vaccine, your immune system retains memory for many years—often decades—effectively protecting you from re-infection.
**Editor:** That’s reassuring to know. Given that we can face new viruses each season, what can individuals do to support their immune system during this time?
**Dr. Gack:** Great question! Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key. This includes staying well-hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, getting regular exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep. Also, practicing good hygiene, like hand washing, is crucial in preventing the spread of infections.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Gack, for your invaluable insights. As we prepare for the cold and flu season, understanding our immune system will help us take better care of our health.
**Dr. Gack:** Thank you for having me! Stay healthy, everyone!
