Can You Get Reinfected with Covid?

Although we have been living with COVID-19 for over a year already, there are still many things to learn about this dreaded pandemic. One of the important questions many people ask is “can you get reinfected with Covid?” Let's explore that. 

The first cases of the novel coronavirus which causes COVID-19 were reported in Wuhan, China in November and December of 2019. Since then, the virus has spread rampantly and aggressively with devastating consequences. 

While some areas were hit harder, it has affected most of the world. America, in particular, was hit hard. Many areas are currently experiencing a resurgence or “second wave” of infections. This is a grave concern. 

What is reinfection?

With many diseases, one gets sick, recovers, and builds up an immunity to the disease. In these cases, the body will build up antibodies. These proteins built up in the body are able to combat and neutralize new diseases and toxins that enter the body. 

They are specific to the disease. The two main types of immunity are active or passive.

Active Immunity

This is where the person is exposed to the disease or infection. By recovering from the virus it causes the body to build u antibodies which will help to prevent future infections. The immune system will form protection to prevent further infection. This often lasts for a lifetime. 

This is effective yet never guaranteed and there is still a chance one could become reinfected.

Passive Immunity

This is where the necessary disease antibodies are transferred to the person. This could be from blood containing immune globulin or disease-specific antibodies. It is often transferred from mother to child. 

This type of immunity is generally short-term and will not last forever. 

What is the CDC doing? 

We trust and rely on the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for trustworthy advice that we can rely on. They have the training, skills, and expertise to guide us. As previously mentioned, we are all still learning about COVID-19, the CDC included. 

Much progress has been made but and there are some positive announcements around vaccines. While this is great news, it is early days. Time will tell how effective they are. 

For now, it is still important to follow basic guidelines. These include social distancing, the wearing of masks, hand washing, and other prevention measures. 

Can you get reinfected with Covid?

Back to the original question, the short answer is yes, you can. Contracting the disease will allow your body to build up antibodies and reduce the risk of reinfection but it will not guarantee or prevent it. 

Infection will no doubt help your body to build up antibodies and resistance but will in no way mean that you are immune to COVID-19. The immunity or resistance that you build up could also diminish over time. This means that the longer you stay healthy, the larger the chance is that you could be reinfected. 

The bottom line is yes, you can get reinfected with Covid. It might be less severe the next time but the reality is that you are still at risk of contracting COVID-19 even if you had it before. 

Antibody testing will indicate if you have survived COVID-19. Some people do not even display symptoms or suffer from mild symptoms. Again, this is no guarantee you will not get the disease again. 

Remember, even if you do not suffer, due to a good immune system or other factors, you could still a carrier of the virus. It is not all about you and you could pass it on to people with a higher risk factor. 

While it was often considered that those that have contracted COID-19 are now immune, this is simply not true. They could well have built up the necessary antibodies and be at less risk but they can indeed get reinfected. 

It is still important to follow basic health guidelines:

Social distancing
Wear a mask
Wash hands regularly 
Test and quarantine if you have symptoms

The real issue is not that all people that are infected will suffer or die but they may pass it on to others that are less healthy or immunocompromised. 

Returning to work

Many companies have allowed all or some staff to return to work. This is a major concern for many. What is essential is that the workspace is professionally disinfected and sanitized on a regular basis. One needs to use a company like Stat Sanitizing. They have the skills, equipment, and experience to do a quality job. 

The other measures mentioned above should also be strictly adhered to to ensure the safety of all. 

Exercise caution

Many people are under the impression that if they have had CODID-19 and have recovered that they are no longer at risk. Sadly, most experts agree that this is not true. There are many reported cases of reinfection. This belief might cause people to let their guard down and stop practicing the recommended guidelines. 

While reinfection is not common is is certainly possible. For your own safety as well as those around you you should continue with precautions as if you had not been infected. 

Final thoughts

We are still learning about this devastating virus. It has changed the world and affected people and economies in countless ways. It is important to do everything possible to slow or stop the spread of the pandemic. 

While further testing and peer reviews are being done, the general consensus among experts is that one can get reinfected with COVID-19. Keep this in mind, make others aware, and stay safe. Let's hope that the vaccines that coming out will help to eradicate the threat. Until then, follow the recommended practices.