"I got COVID infected during the second wave, can I still catch a severe infection?"

The new COVID-19 variant that originated in South Africa is spreading its claws rapidly across the globe. In just a month, the presence of the variant has been confirmed in more than 50 countries, raising concerns about the possible third wave of coronavirus. Due to the high transmissibility rate, it is speculated that omicron can infect more people than ever before. Although the symptoms might be mild, the number of people infected would be higher than the second wave. Looking at the current global scenario, it is obvious to wonder if previous cases of infection can provide any protection from the new strain.

Millions of people across the globe who have experienced the nasty symptoms of COVID-19 and have luckily recovered from it have only one question in mind - is it possible to get reinfected?

Well, it is possible.

After being infected with any kind of virus we develop some immunity against the strain. The same is with coronavirus. Our immune system can remember the RNA of the virus and when it comes in contact with the same in the future, it easily overcomes it. But with time the memory of the immune cells starts fading. That means it might not be successful in stopping the virus from infecting the cells. In the case of coronavirus, it is not yet clear how long the immunity from natural infections lasts. Cases of reinfection after recovery have been reported, but it is quite rare.

Even getting two doses of the vaccine does not guarantee complete protection against the new variant. The cases of breakthrough infections, which means getting infected with the virus after complete vaccination is possible. Data from the countries with the highest number of omicron cases suggest that even those who are completely vaccinated can develop the condition. The reason is that omicrons can surpass the immunity provided by the vaccine, leading to the infection. However, it is also witnessed that fully vaccinated people do not develop severe symptoms.

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How many people have been reinfected with the COVID-19 can only be determined by special testing. It could be possible to develop symptoms for a while, feel better for some period and again witness the symptoms. This would not be reinfection, but part of the same infection. In some cases, people continue to test positive for COVID-19 for weeks after the initial illness, causing confusion. The findings of a study carried out on the people in Denmark suggest that about 1 in 150 tested positive during the first wave of infections in the country were re-infected during the second wave of infections.

Re-infection due to a new variant is one of the greatest concerns. It increases the risk because the immune system might not recognise the mutant variant, finding it hard to fight the virus. Moreover, many of the new variants are more infectious than the initial COVID-19 virus, which also increases the possibility of re-infection. The same goes for omicron. Though the new variant does not cause severe symptoms, it is highly transmissible. Besides, there is also a threat of Delmicron, the combination of Delta and Omicron, which has caused havoc in the European nations.

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As the number of omicron cases is rising across the globe, it is better to follow all COVID related protocols to stay safe and healthy. Wear a mask all the time, maintain hygiene, avoid crowded places and isolate yourself as soon as you witness any sign of coronavirus. Even if you are completely vaccinated, it is crucial to follow the norms.