Since the spread of the Omicron variant across various parts of the world has infected millions, there has been a recurring question about whether those infected now have immunity against the coronavirus. The American magazine "People" reported that variants provide different levels of protection against infection; for instance, the Delta variant offers strong antibody protection to those who have been infected with it.
However, the situation is different with Omicron, which is considered milder and less severe. So, do Omicron infected individuals possess strong immunity against COVID-19? Infectious disease experts have yet to provide a "unified answer" to this question. The magazine quoted William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University, stating, "We do not yet know the definitive answer to this matter... the unknown is how strong and how long the immunity will last that our bodies will provide against this infection."
Nonetheless, a recent study found that individuals who were vaccinated and then contracted COVID-19 have good protection. Researchers in the state of Oregon studied cases among healthcare workers who were fully vaccinated and subsequently diagnosed with COVID-19. They found that this group had significantly higher levels of antibodies compared to vaccinated individuals who did not contract the infection. The researchers noted that the study was conducted before the emergence of the Omicron variant, "but it still serves as a positive indication that people will develop additional natural protection."
In any case, specialists emphasize the importance of getting the COVID-19 vaccine and continuing to take precautionary measures.
