Can You Get the Flu Twice? Find Out Here!

Short Answer

Yes, you can get the flu twice in one season, especially if you’re exposed to different strains of the influenza virus such as influenza A and influenza B. Immunity after an infection only covers the specific strain your body encountered, meaning you’re still vulnerable to other flu viruses. This means you can get the flu twice in one season, especially during periods with multiple strains in active circulation.

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What We’re Seeing in This Year’s Flu Season

This year’s flu season is proving to be one of the longest and most intense in over a decade. According to the CDC, over 33 million flu cases have been reported so far in the U.S., with elevated flu activity expected to persist well into the spring months. The CDC has already classified the 2024–2025 flu season as a period of significant flu activity.

At Manhattan Medical Arts, we’re seeing patients returning weeks after an initial infection, this time testing positive for a different strain. Many of these reinfections involve individuals who had influenza A earlier, then contracted an influenza B strain in a second wave. The presence of multiple strains makes such scenarios increasingly common, and it’s not unusual for some patients to experience flu symptoms twice in one season.

We closely monitor guidance from centers for disease control to keep our community safe and ensure early diagnosis and management.

Why Does This Happen?

Influenza is caused by a group of flu viruses that mutate frequently. There are four types—A, B, C, and D—but flu season is primarily driven by types A and B. Type A includes subtypes like H1N1 and H3N2; type B includes B/Victoria and B/Yamagata lineages.

This antigenic drift allows different strains to circulate in the same season. So yes, you can absolutely get the flu twice—first with one subtype and later with another. This has been especially true in long flu seasons and those following major events like the swine flu pandemic. The circulation of multiple strains, newly emerging influenza strains, and overlapping virus activity means more patients could face the flu twice in one season.

Clinical Experience: What We’ve Seen

Dr. Syra Hanif, our board-certified Primary Care Physician, shares:

“We’ve diagnosed cases where a patient first tested positive for H3N2 in December, then returned in February with flu B symptoms and tested positive again. Reinfection is real—especially among those with a weakened immune system or those who skipped the flu shot.”

Our clinic uses rapid influenza virus testing that delivers results within minutes. This is how we confirm whether symptoms are due to a different circulating illness, a repeat strain, or even something else like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

How the Flu Vaccine Helps

Getting the annual flu shot remains the best way to avoid serious complications and severe illness. The flu vaccination decreases hospitalizations significantly, especially in high-risk groups.

The annual flu shot includes protection against three or four strains—commonly two influenza A subtypes and one or two influenza B types. Even if you’ve already had the flu this season, the vaccine still boosts your immune system and helps prevent future infection.

It’s especially critical when different influenza strains and evolving virus types are circulating across communities, increasing the chances of being hit twice in one season.

Schedule Your Flu Vaccine with Dr. Syra Hanif

When to Get Tested Again

If you’ve recovered from the flu but then develop respiratory virus symptoms like sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, and fever, it’s time to consider retesting.

These symptoms could point to:

• A different flu strain
• Secondary bacterial infections
• Coinfection with another circulating illness (e.g., RSV or adenovirus)

Rapid testing is the only way to know for sure, and antiviral treatment is most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.

Who’s Most at Risk of Getting the Flu Twice?

Some groups are more vulnerable to repeat infections:

• Children (per pediatric infectious disease specialists)
• Adults over 65
• Individuals with underlying health conditions
• People with weakened immune systems
• Unvaccinated individuals
• Those in close-contact environments (e.g., schools, hospitals, or shared housing)

What to Do If You’re Sick Again

1. Get tested for influenza virus promptly.
2. Start flu antivirals like Tamiflu or Xofluza if prescribed.
3. Stay home and rest until fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
4. Drink fluids, manage severe symptoms, and monitor for serious illness.

If your symptoms worsen or you’re at risk of serious complications, call your physician immediately.

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FAQs

Final Takeaway

Yes, you can get the flu twice in one season, and it’s more likely when diverse influenza strains are active. Protect yourself by getting a flu vaccine, staying alert to new flu symptoms, and reaching out for care when needed.

Our team at Manhattan Medical Arts has served New York City for over a decade, and we’re here to help you navigate flu season with confidence.

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Disclaimer

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health-related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.