If you do this after your first dose of COVID-19, it may result in reduced protection against viruses

A recent study has shown that the combination of a COVID-19 infection and the COVID-19 vaccination gives the strongest protection against the virus. However, another study shows that this is not always the case, especially if you contracted COVID-19 after your first dose of vaccine.

This study, recently published in the journal Epidemiology & Infection, suggests that regardless of their situation, people should get both rounds of vaccinations, even if they contracted COVID-19 after their first vaccination or months before they were vaccinated.

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Photo by Ed Us via Unsplash

The study tracked a small amount of the antibody levels of the participants in Israel and showed that those who got COVID-19 infection after their first vaccination and never received their second vaccination had antibody levels similar to people who only received their first vaccination and had never contracted the disease. Although the study sample was small, the results should encourage people to complete their full immunization.

While it is believed that a shot is better than no shot, it is still very important that people get both rounds of shots. A study published in October showed that immunization with a single vaccination is relatively short, lasting around three months. After this period, you may re-infect, exposing you and others to risk.

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The CDC has been adamant about vaccinations, claiming that anyone is eligible – basically everyone over 12 – should get their shots. If someone becomes infected with COVID-19 after the first vaccination, the second vaccination should be postponed until full recovery, mainly to avoid putting others at risk of contracting the disease. Once the person has been tested and the COVID-19 test is negative, they should receive their second vaccination to complete their immunization.