The strength of the immune system in response to respiratory infections is constantly changing, depending on the history of previous, unrelated infections, according to new research from the Crick.
There are two types of immunity to infections. Adaptive immunity provides immune "memory", allowing a fast and strong immunological response when the same disease is encountered more than once. In contrast, innate immunity provides a broad and less specific first line of defence against all pathogens, and is vital to controlling infections the body has not experienced previously.
Slightly odd comment about "not suggesting a flu infection is desirable", when they are actually supporting flu vaccination because it produces the same immune response. My father always reckoned that the flu jab gave him protection against colds (for the very reasons stated in the research); I was always less convinced, but the report does lend weight to that argument.
I enjoyed reading the link and it makes sensethat this is the case. I'll try and keep on top of that bit of research. If you do I'm sure you will feed back to us all. Thanks
The immune system is fascinating. I wonder where that leaves those of us with genetic immune deficiency - whether or not we make or don’t make that response. I was given a pneumonia vaccination and made no antibodies at all, which is common for those of us with immunodeficiency apparently.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
Immunity-boosting foods etc
