According to the NIMH, an unexpected or terrible incident might decrease your body's immunological response. The loss of a loved one, for example, can enhance the production of nerve chemicals and hormones, increasing your risk of more frequent and severe viral illnesses, such as the flu, according to the agency. 20 Khordad, 1394 AP (Iran)#1394. The World Health Organization reports that seasonal influenza affects between 5% and 20% of the world's population annually, resulting in 250,000-500,000 deaths per year. The virus can be highly contagious and can be spread through contact with droplets emitted when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Other ways include contact with objects like doorknobs or handrails that have been contaminated with saliva from an infected person; or by eating food or drinking beverages that have been touched by someone with the virus. In general, healthy people who are not immune-suppressed can withstand these infections every year without problems. However, for some people, particularly those who are elderly or have other health issues, these viruses may cause serious complications that could lead to death. Immunity is our body's natural defense against illness. It is made up of two components: active immunity and passive immunity. Active immunity requires that your body make its own antibodies against specific pathogens.