Am I immune to the coronavirus if Ive already had it?
You have some immunity, but how much and for how long are big unanswered questions.
Theres evidence that reinfection is unlikely for at least three months even for people who had a mild case of COVID-19. Thats how long New York City researchers found stable levels of protective antibodies in a study of nearly 20,000 patients of the Mount Sinai Health System.
Reinfection so far has been rare. The best known example: Researchers in Hong Kong said a man had mild COVID-19 and then months later was infected again but showed no symptoms. His second infection was detected through airport testing, and researchers said genetic tests revealed slightly different strains of the virus.
Its actually evidence the mans immune system worked like it should. Very few diseases leave people completely immune for life.
Antibodies are only one piece of the bodys defenses, and they naturally wane over time. And usually, memory immune cells can identify germs they previously encountered so theyre better at fighting them the second time around. That can help make any repeat infections less severe.
Scientists are studying how the other parts of the immune system kick in with the coronavirus.
Its not known whether people whove been reinfected but show no symptoms would be able to spread the virus to others. Thats why health authorities say even people who have recovered from COVID-19 need to wear a mask, keep their distance and practice good hygiene.
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The AP is answering your questions about the coronavirus in this series. Submit them at: [email protected]. Read more here:
What do we know about superspreader events in the pandemic?
How long could I be contagious before a positive virus test?
How do I politely ask someone to wear a mask?
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