For those unlucky enough to catch COVID-19 but lucky enough to recover, the light at the end of the tunnel is often the period of immunity to the virus that comes after getting rid of it. But how long do these antibodies last?
Numerous studies have been conducted in the U.S. and Europe examining this question, and while the life of the antibody may change, researchers conclude that most patients recovered about six months of immunity to the coronavirus.
The latest study, published on Wednesday by UK scientists, found that almost everyone who has previously been exposed to COVID-19 has high levels of antibodies for at least six months which is likely to protect them. from relapse with the disease.
Scientists said the study, which measured levels of previous COVID-19 infections in numbers across Britain, as well as the duration of antibodies in those infected, should provide some rest. -indicate that rapid cases of relapse are rare.
“Most people keep visible antibodies for at least six months after being infected with the coronavirus,” said Naomi Allen, a professor and chief scientist at Biobank UK, where the study was conducted.
Among participants who had previously tested positive for COVID-19 infection, 99% maintained antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 for three months, the results showed. After the full six months of follow-up in the study, 88% remained.
“While we cannot be sure how this relates to immunity, the results suggest that people may be immune to subsequent infections for at least six months after a natural infection,” he said. Allen.
She said the findings were also consistent with the results of other studies in the UK and Iceland which found that antibodies to the coronavirus tended to last for several months in those who contracted and contracted the disease. air.
A study published by researchers in the US and Switzerland last month found that people may be able to fight relapse for at least six months after receiving it. past COVID-19 thanks to B memory cells that can “remember” the virus.
These cells can remember the pathogen and can, if they are resistant to relapse, stimulate the immune system to restart the production of viral antibodies.
“Memory responses depend on protection from relapse and are critical for effective vaccination,” concluded the study published in the journal Nature.
Two other recent UK studies have reached similar conclusions. A study of UK healthcare workers published last month found that people with COVID-19 were likely to be protected for at least five months but noted that those with antibodies still carry and spread the virus.
Another Oxford University study published in November also found the six-month timeframe for low risk of relapse among recovered patients.
Reducing the longevity of COVID-19 antibodies, however, is not true science, so recovered patients – and those who have been vaccinated against the coronavirus – should continue to follow measures such as mask wear, social pace and hygiene.