For RNA-based viruses such as Sars-Cov-2, it takes about three weeks for the body to build up a sufficient quantity of antibodies, and even then they may provide protection for only a few months.
Even as virologists zero in on the virus that causes COVID-19, a very basic question remains unanswered: do those who recover from the disease have immunity?
At least that is the theory. In reality, the new coronavirus has thrown up one surprise after another, to the point where virologists and epidemiologists are sure of very little. A recent study from China that has not gone through peer review reported on rhesus monkeys that recovered from Sars-Cov-2 and did not get reinfected when exposed once again to the virus.
As tests for live virus and antibodies have not yet been perfected, it is also possible that these patients at some point tested"false negative" when in fact they had not rid themselves of the pathogen. "That's something we really need to better understand -- what does that antibody response look like in terms of immunity.""We are at the stage of asking whether someone who has overcome COVID-19 is really that protected," said Jean-Francois Delfraissy, president of France's official science advisory board.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Chile to start controversial coronavirus immunity card systemSANTIAGO (BLOOMBERG) - Chile plans to issue immunity cards for people that have recovered from coronavirus to signal they are no longer contagious and can return to work and their normal lives.. Read more at straitstimes.com.
Read more »
Using serology to indicate coronavirus immunityABOUT THE SERIES. Read more at straitstimes.com.
Read more »
After market storm, hedge funds launch to catch the recovery waveAt least eight European hedge funds are launching portfolios betting on a recovery in corporate debt and emerging markets after the coronavirus ...
Read more »
Australia may keep coronavirus restrictions for a year, schools may work on rosterSYDNEY (REUTERS) - Australian public life could be constrained for another year because of the coronavirus pandemic, Prime Minister Scott Morrison warned on Friday (April 17), as the country's most populous state mulled sending children to school in shifts.. Read more at straitstimes.com.
Read more »
Coronavirus: Experts say big jump in infections is stretching the healthcare systemSingapore could easily see 10,000 to 20,000 cases by the end of the month if it does not put in place fast and effective measures ensuring actual safe distancing among the workers currently in the dorms, say experts.. Read more at straitstimes.com.
Read more »
Exit lockdowns with caution to avoid being confined again: ExpertsAs several countries prepare to ease sweeping restrictions put in place to slow the coronavirus pandemic, experts say the openings should be ...
Read more »