Although scientists are actively studying the effects of COVID-19 and learning more about it every day, there are still many unknowns surrounding this brand-new and highly contagious coronavirus that was discovered in 2019. For instance, many people wonder if it is possible to get COVID-19 twice. There are a lot of misconceptions related to this key question.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some COVID-19 reinfections are to be expected based on what is known about similar viruses. Reinfection means you were infected once, recovered, and then later became infected again. So yes, it is possible to get COVID-19 more than once.
But What About COVID-19 Antibodies?
If you contract COVID-19, your body’s immune system will produce antibodies to target and destroy the virus. Those antibodies may provide you with some level of protection against getting COVID-19 again, becoming ill, and spreading the virus to others, at least in the short term. However, the strength and effectiveness of COVID-19 antibodies are currently unknown, and some studies suggest that COVID-19 immunity fades relatively quickly in people who have recovered, leaving them at risk for reinfection.
Prevention Is Still the Best Medicine
A COVID-19 diagnosis is not a free pass to ignore all safety protocols going forward. Regardless of whether you have already had COVID-19, it is important to take appropriate steps to protect yourself and others, such as:
- Washing your hands thoroughly and often
- Avoiding crowds and confined spaces
- Wearing a cloth face mask in public places
- Maintaining a physical distance of a least six feet between yourself and other people
If you have questions about COVID-19, Medella Urgent Care can help. Our urgent care centers in Magnolia and Vintage Park, Texas, are staffed with some of the best and brightest medical professionals in the northern Houston area, and we are committed to keeping our patients healthy and informed. We won’t rush you through the diagnostic and treatment process; rather, we’ll provide you with individualized attention and care to meet your unique needs.
To learn more, contact or visit Medella Urgent Care today.
