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Herd Immunity and COVID-19: Its Impact and Importance
Our immune systems produce antibodies to protect us from infections, forming a vital defence mechanism known as immunity. When we recover from an illness, our bodies naturally generate antibodies against bacteria and viruses.
Vaccines, however, offer a highly effective way to establish immunity. They educate our immune systems on how to combat infections without causing illness. This process ensures that our immune system retains a memory of past virus encounters.
If exposed to the same pathogen again, specialised immune cells and proteins circulate in the body to recognise and eliminate it swiftly. This recognition not only shields the body from disease but also reduces the severity of illness.
Key components of this long-term immune defense include antibodies, which are proteins that identify and neutralise foreign substances like viruses. Various types of T cells play crucial roles in detecting and eliminating pathogens, while B cells are responsible for producing new antibodies as needed.
Individuals who recover from SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, develop both these immune system components. However, uncertainties remain regarding the duration and specifics of this immune response post-infection. Isolated cases of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection have raised concerns about the potential longevity of the virus’s immune protection.
How Does Natural Immunity Work After COVID-19?
After recovering from COVID-19, your immune system develops protection against future encounters with the virus. Here’s how it works:
- Antibodies: These proteins circulate in your bloodstream, identifying and neutralising viruses like COVID-19.
- Helper T Cells: They assist in recognising pathogens and coordinating immune responses.
- Killer T Cells: These cells destroy infected cells to eliminate the virus from your body.
- B Cells: These produce new antibodies when needed to fight off infections.
Once infected, your immune system typically generates antibodies within a few weeks. However, lingering symptoms can persist for weeks or months post-recovery. This means that if exposed again, your immune system can recognise and combat the infection effectively.
After COVID-19, How Does Vaccine-induced Immunity Work?
Vaccines trigger your immune system to develop protection against a virus, much like recovering from an illness. Here’s how it happens:
- Macrophages, B cells, and T cells: These cells work together similarly to when you get sick, helping to recognise and fight off the virus.
- Advantages of Vaccination: Vaccines teach your body to defend against viruses without causing illness.
- Duration of Immunity: Some vaccines provide long-term protection, while others may require booster shots. The longevity of COVID-19 vaccine immunity is still being studied.
Experts are hopeful that COVID-19 vaccines will offer lasting protection, though ongoing research will determine if booster shots are needed in the future.
What Are the Foods Known to Boost Immunity?
- Citrus Fruits
- Leafy Greens
- Berries
- Yogurt
- Garlic
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Nuts and Seeds
- Green Tea
- Probiotic Foods
Increase COVID-19 Immunity Naturally
Proactive steps for natural defences:
- Consume Antioxidant-Rich Foods
- Do regular exercise
- Maintain healthy weight
- Good Hygiene: Wash hands follow guidelines.
- Consider Vaccination: Critical for building immunity.
COVID-19 Vaccines and Immunity Duration
COVID-19 vaccines can provide immunity for at least three to eight months after full vaccination. However, due to the novel nature of the virus, research continues to unfold regarding the pandemic's timeline, which may extend from months to years.
Since COVID-19 has only been around for about a year, there is much yet to learn. Researchers are studying whether immunity from infection or vaccination can offer long-term protection.
Until more is known, it's essential to take precautions to avoid getting sick and to get vaccinated when available.
Frequently Asked Questions
After completing the entire vaccine schedule, i.e. after the second dose of COVISHIELD and COVAXIN, an adequate immune response takes 2-3 weeks.
COVID-19 is being tested once more. If you've recovered from your symptoms after testing positive for COVID-19, you will test positive for three months or longer without risking spreading the virus to others. As a result, you can only be screened if you show new symptoms of COVID-19.
Since clinical trials for the COVID-19 vaccine only began in the summer of 2020, it's unclear if these vaccines would have long-term side effects. Vaccines, on the other hand, seldom have long-term side effects.
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