Immunity is our body's ability to defend itself against external aggressions – viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites or even a foreign body such as a splinter or a transplanted organ – and internal attacks, such as cancers. An outstanding communication network is implemented by our body to protect its integrity: certain cells like white blood cells, molecules such as antibodies, and organs like the spleen - coordinate to respond to different threats.
If you would like to learn more, Professor Nathan Clumeck, Professor Emeritus of Infectious Diseases at ULB, takes the time to explain to us in detail what viruses and immunity are.
“The idea of boosting immunity is appealing, but the possibility of actually achieving that is difficult”, he remarks. “Nevertheless, multiple studies have been able to demonstrate a correlation between a healthy lifestyle and optimal immunity. This results in a significant decrease in infectious events, inflammatory diseases or cancer”.
Such a lifestyle consists of participating in regular physical activity, having a healthy diet, maintaining an ideal body weight, not consuming tobacco, drinking alcohol in moderation, and getting enough sleep.
To these recommendations we can add simple actions such as washing your hands and vaccinating -actions that prepare the immune system against a series of particularly virulent and potentially fatal pathogens.
