Natural vs COVID vaccine induced-immunity: All questions answered

COVID-19 is a highly contagious infection and owing to the emergence of new highly transmissible variants of the coronavirus, a very dangerous too. The only way to protect oneself from this virus is to build strong immunity both naturally and through vaccines. However, there have been several debates around the power of natural and vaccine-induced immunity, which lasts longer and which protects an individual more from the infection. 

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In this article, we will try to answer all the questions that you had about natural and vaccine-induced immunity.

Does natural immunity against COVID-19 last longer?

The natural immunity against the SARs-COV-2 virus is built when the person gets infected with COVID-19. This happens because our body develops an understanding of the virus and reacts when exposed to it. 

During this entire process of getting infected and recovering, antibodies are produced, which go on to build a lasting immunity. While there is no evidence suggesting the exact durability of natural immunity, certain studies have established that this immunity can be long-lasting.

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According to a Rockefeller University and Weill Cornell Medicine in New York study, it was found that immunity among people who were previously infected lasted from six months to a year.

Does natural immunity last longer than vaccine-induced immunity?

According to indications by some scientific studies, natural immunity can prevail for up to six months to a year. However, it is said to be at its peak for around 90 days post-infection and starts to diminish thereafter.

But comparatively, COVID vaccine-induced immunity is said to provide longer-lasting immunity against the infection as it is created specially keeping in mind the mutant behaviour of the virus.

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Should one delay vaccination after getting COVID?

The previous study has proven that people who have developed natural immunity, show better protection on being vaccinated. Thus, vaccination in no case should be avoided.

However, as far as the timeline is concerned, experts believe that a person with natural immunity, which means after recovering from COVID, can defer their vaccination maximum by 3 months.