It’s a fair question, and one a lot of people ask.
If you’re generally healthy, it can feel like catching the flu once in a while might help your body build natural immunity. Especially after the past few years, many people are also feeling a bit of vaccine fatigue and are questioning which vaccines they really need.
So, is it better to just let your immune system handle it?
The short answer
Natural immunity does play a role, but when it comes to flu, it’s not as reliable as people think.
That’s because the flu virus changes every year. The strain you had last year, or even a few years ago, may be quite different to what’s circulating this season. So your past immunity might not recognise it well enough to protect you.
What many people don’t realise
Being immunised against flu isn’t just about avoiding infection altogether.
Even if you do catch the flu, the vaccine can:
- reduce how severe your symptoms are
- lower your risk of complications like pneumonia
- make it less likely you’ll need hospital care
For many people that difference is significant, especially for young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.
Why yearly protection matters
Unlike some other vaccines, the flu vaccine is updated each year to match the strains most likely to circulate.
Protection also decreases over time, which is why a yearly dose gives you the best chance of staying protected throughout the flu season.
It’s not just about you
Flu spreads easily through families, workplaces and the community.
Being immunised helps reduce the chance of passing it on to others, including people who may be more vulnerable to serious illness, like babies, pregnant women, and older family members.
Feeling unsure? You’re not alone
It’s completely normal to feel unsure about vaccines, especially after everything we’ve all experienced during COVID-19.
Taking a moment to check what’s recommended for you now, rather than relying on past illness, is a simple way to stay on top of your health.
Be an Immunisation Hero
A quick conversation with your GP or practice nurse can help you decide what’s right for you this flu season.
You can get your flu shot at your GP clinic, many pharmacies, and local community immunisation clinics.
Because protecting yourself also helps protect your family and community.
Healthy families. Stronger communities.