Potential for COVID-19 Reinfections within a Single Month: Understanding Rebounds
In the second half of 2022, the first booster vaccines specifically targeting Omicron variants were brought to market. These updated bivalent mRNA boosters, which target Omicron subvariants, became available in the fall of 2022 in several countries.
However, despite these advancements, there are still uncertainties regarding the risk of COVID-19 reinfections. According to the CDC, we know little about the risk of transmission during COVID-19 reinfections.
A June 2022 study found that COVID-19 reinfections increased the risk of problems with fatigue, issues with the lungs, cardiovascular system, and many other organ systems, diabetes, hospitalization, and death from any cause. This risk was seen regardless of vaccination status.
On the other hand, a study published in April 2022 found that COVID-19 reinfections had a 90% lower risk of serious illness or death compared to first infections. An April 2022 study also suggested that reinfections carried a lower risk of death than first infections.
Pfizer-BioNTech's Omicron booster gave higher levels of neutralizing antibodies against BA.1. Neutralizing antibodies for BA.4 and BA.5 were present but to a lesser extent. Moderna's Omicron booster, on the other hand, yields a significantly higher neutralizing antibody response to BA.4 and BA.5 than its current booster.
Boosters targeting Omicron are slated to be available starting in fall 2022.
Paxlovid rebounds, a reoccurrence of COVID-19 after Paxlovid treatment, have been reported. These rebounds can occur in anyone, regardless of vaccination status. Paxlovid rebounds are characterized by a new positive COVID-19 test after previously testing negative, which can also include a return of mild symptoms.
A small May 2022 study documented transmission to family members during rebounds. Rebounds after Paxlovid are rare, with only 0.8% of people treated with Paxlovid experiencing a rebound in a June 2022 study. Paxlovid rebounds typically happen between 2 and 8 days after Paxlovid treatment.
It's important to note that COVID-19 rebounds may also happen without taking Paxlovid. To prevent getting COVID-19 reinfections, it's best to continue to take steps to protect yourself. This includes staying on your COVID-19 vaccines, wearing a well-fitting mask, washing your hands frequently, avoiding crowded areas or poorly ventilated spaces, and trying to stay a distance of 6 feet apart from others outside your household.
A July 2022 study found that viral shedding (aka the contagious period) among people with Omicron infections can last up to 10 days. This highlights the importance of isolation and quarantine measures. It's a good idea to isolate and quarantine for at least 10 days or until you are symptom-free and test negative from a rapid COVID-19 test.
While there is still much to learn about COVID-19 reinfections and the Omicron variants, these findings underscore the importance of continued vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines.
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