Bringing your immune system into prime time
Your immune system is designed to protect you from toxins, infections, harmful viruses and bacteria, and to destroy abnormal cells, like cancer. When immune system cells encounter these potential hazards, they can not only knock them out, but they can also form a memory of their battle against them so that they can wage an even more effective defense on your behalf the next time those nasty buggers pass by. This is called immune-priming.
Immune-priming also happens when you get a vaccination. Your immune system cells are alerted to a potential future infection and stand ready to defeat it -- and they may even be able to create cross-protection to related (but distinct) conditions. According to a new study in Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses, this kind of immune-priming can happen when you get both the flu and the COVID-19 vaccine.
Researchers looked at data on 600,000 people, and they saw strong indications that those vaccines also helped block a range of viral ARIs (acute respiratory infections) such as RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), the common cold and bronchitis. For example, an off-season flu shot (from January to June) was associated with a decreased risk for SARS-CoV-2 and all ARIs.
You can also prime your immune system so that it stands ready to defend you against unforeseen dangers by tamping down (or never developing) chronic inflammation. You can accomplish that with a healthy plant-based diet, stress management, plenty of exercise, good sleep habits, and a purpose and a posse. Let me help you; visit 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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