Does getting sick often with colds and flus help build up my body's natural defenses?

Question

I get the flu or colds about once every month.

Answer 1

It's true up to a point. Once you have had a cold you have built up immunity to that particular variant of the virus. The problem is that new variants are continually evolving, so the next one's going to get you. In theory, each cold you get will reduce your chances of getting another, but in practice the little critters can adapt faster than your own immune system. So keep those hankies at the ready!