The impact of sleep on vaccines and immunity: Important medical advice

With the growing global focus on public health and disease prevention, the importance of sleep has emerged as a vital factor, no less important than nutrition and exercise, in boosting the immune system. Dr. Diaa Hussein, a rheumatologist and osteoporosis specialist, confirmed in an exclusive statement to Al-Youm that sleep quality plays a pivotal role in determining the body's response to various vaccinations.

Biological mechanism: How does sleep support the immune system?

To understand the profound relationship between sleep and immunity, we must examine what happens within the body during rest. Established medical facts indicate that sleep is not simply a period of inactivity, but a biologically active process. During sleep, the immune system releases proteins called cytokines, some of which help promote sleep itself. Crucially, the body needs to increase the production of certain cytokines when faced with infection, inflammation, or stress. Sleep deprivation can reduce the production of these protective cytokines, as well as decrease antibodies and infection-fighting cells, making the body less receptive to vaccines.

Sleep and vaccine effectiveness: Medical warnings

Dr. Diaa Hussein explained that behavioral factors directly affect the immune response, noting that insufficient sleep the night after vaccination can significantly weaken the immune system's response. He added, "In some cases, this reduces the vaccine's effectiveness to such an extent that a second dose may be required to compensate for the lack of response. People who sleep only a few hours don't give their bodies enough time to develop a strong immune memory, potentially leaving them unprotected despite being vaccinated.".

Effects of sleep deprivation on general health

The harmful effects of sleep deprivation don't stop at weakening the immune system; they extend to serious health risks. Dr. Diaa pointed out that the body needs regular sleep hours to recharge its energy, regulate hormones, and regenerate cells. Recent medical studies, including one published in the Journal of Immunology in 2025, have linked sleep deprivation to increased inflammation in the body and a higher risk of developing chronic diseases such as:

• Type 2 diabetes.
• High blood pressure and heart disease.
• Obesity and metabolic disorders.
• Cognitive decline, impaired memory and concentration.

Mental health and quality of life

On a psychological level, Dr. Diaa revealed that healthy sleep is a fundamental pillar of emotional balance. Good sleep helps the brain regulate emotions and cope with daily stresses in a balanced way, thus reducing the likelihood of anxiety and depression. Sleep also promotes the chemical balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which positively impacts mood and productivity at work and school.

Tips to improve sleep quality

The doctor concluded by emphasizing that sleep is not a luxury but a vital necessity, calling for practical steps to improve sleep quality, including:

• Adhering to fixed sleep and wake-up times.
• Create a quiet and dark environment for sleeping.
• Reduce the use of electronic devices before bedtime to avoid the effects of blue light.
• Avoid stimulants in the evening hours to ensure the body enters the deep sleep stages necessary for cellular and immune repair.