STORY AT-A-GLANCE
- Evidence from Washington University School of Medicine shows long-lasting immunity to COVID-19 exists in those who’ve recovered from the natural infection
- At both seven months and 11 months after infection, most of the participants had bone marrow plasma cells (BMPCs) that secreted antibodies specific for the spike protein encoded by SARS-CoV-2
- The BMPCs were found in amounts similar to those found in people who had been vaccinated against tetanus or diphtheria, which are considered to provide long-lasting immunity
- The antibody protection gained in those who’ve recovered from COVID-19 is likely to continue “indefinitely”
- Vaccination may be more dangerous for those who’ve had COVID-19, as the immune response reactivated by the COVID-19 vaccine may trigger inflammation in tissues where the viral antigens are present
- The benefits of experimental COVID-19 vaccination may not outweigh the risks, especially if you’ve already had COVID-19