New research suggests that it may make sense for men to have more severe flu symptoms than women.
Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada, conducted a study to determine whether men are really more susceptible to flu than women, or if this is just a myth.
Dr. Kyle Sue, a clinical assistant professor at the University, believes that men may not have exaggerated symptoms, but are less immune to viral respiratory viruses.
Dr. Su analyzed the relevant studies and found evidence that adult men were at higher risk of admission compared to women and had higher influenza-related mortality regardless of potential illness.
Men are also more vulnerable to complications and higher mortality from many acute respiratory diseases.
Some evidence supports men being more prone to respiratory virus disease than women because their immune system is less powerful.
Dr. Su wrote in the British Medical Journal that the concept of "human flu" may be unjust and requires further research.
"Men may not have exaggerated symptoms, but the immune response to viral respiratory viruses is weak, leading to higher rates of morbidity and mortality than women," he wrote . ".
A less powerful immune system could actually bring evolutionary benefits, he said, because it allows men to put their energy into other biological processes, "such as growth, secondary sex traits, and reproduction.
"It's good to be sick," Dr. Su said . ".
He added: "lying on the couch, not getting up, or taking the help of daily life activities can also be evolutionary behavior that can prevent predators.
"Maybe it's time for male-friendly spaces equipped with huge TV and recliner chairs that men can recover from the devastating effects of human flu in a safe and comfortable environment.