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At Ally Medical Emergency Room, our emergency physicians frequently evaluate patients who develop flu symptoms again after recently recovering.

“It can be frustrating to feel sick again so soon, but getting the flu twice in one season is possible because multiple strains of the virus circulate each year,” Dr. Mobola Kukoyi said.

Why You Can Get the Flu More Than Once

The flu virus changes constantly, and more than one strain often circulates during a single flu season. The two main types of influenza, influenza A and influenza B, each have different subtypes or lineages.

“Recovering from one flu strain doesn’t guarantee protection against all the others,” Dr. Kukoyi explained.

You may be at risk for back-to-back flu infections because of:

• Different flu strains: Immunity from one strain doesn’t protect against others.

• Virus mutation: Even small changes in a virus can allow reinfection.

• Weakened immune system: Stress, illness, or chronic conditions can make reinfection more likely.

Can You Get the Flu After the Flu Shot?

Yes, it’s still possible to get the flu after vaccination, but the flu shot remains one of the best ways to reduce the risk of severe illness.

“The flu vaccine can’t cover every strain, but it significantly lowers the chances of serious complications, hospitalization, and death,” Dr. Kukoyi said.

You may still get the flu after vaccination if:

• You’re exposed to a strain not included in the vaccine

• Your body hasn’t had enough time to build immunity (which can take up to two weeks)

• Your immune response isn’t strong enough

Who Is More Likely to Get the Flu Twice?

Some people have a higher risk of catching the flu more than once in a season, including those who:

• Are not vaccinated

• Have conditions that affect the immune system

• Take medications that suppress immunity

• Have frequent exposure to illness

Certain groups are also at higher risk for severe flu illness, including:

• Children under age 2

• Adults over age 65

• Pregnant individuals

• People with chronic lung, heart, or metabolic conditions

When Flu Symptoms Require Emergency Care

While many flu symptoms can be managed at home, emergency care is important if symptoms become severe or worsen.

Seek emergency care if flu symptoms include:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath

• Chest pain or pressure

• Persistent vomiting or dehydration

• Severe weakness or dizziness

• Confusion or altered mental status

• Oxygen levels below normal

“At that point, it’s important to be evaluated promptly to prevent complications,” Dr. Kukoyi noted.

At Ally Medical ER, our team can assess flu symptoms, rule out complications, and begin appropriate treatment quickly.

Building Protection Against the Flu

The best way to reduce your risk of flu infection is through:

• Annual flu vaccination

• Good hand hygiene

• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals

• Rest and proper hydration

Even with these steps, knowing when to seek medical care can make a significant difference.

A Note on This Topic

This article is adapted from insights originally shared by Dr. Mobola Kukoyi in a GoodRx Health article titled “Can You Get the Flu Back-to-Back? Yes, Here’s Why You Might Get the Flu Twice in a Single Season.” The original article provides additional educational context on flu immunity and prevention.

Related Reads from Ally Medical ER

• Flu Season Facts and Figures to Help Prevent, Identify and Treat Influenza Virus

• Child Health Month is Here: How Can You Help the Cause?

• When to Go to the ER: 10 Symptoms That Always Require Emergency Care