Antibodies to coronavirus persist one year after infection with original virus strain

Most people who suffered from COVID-19 a year ago retain antibodies. But this concerns only the original strain of the virus: the immune response to new variants of the virus is much weaker, as scientists from the University of Yokohama found out.

According to Medportal.ru, the specialists examined the presence of antibodies in 250 patients who contracted the original variant of SARS-Cov-2 in the period from February to April last year. Neutralizing IgG antibodies to the original variant of the pathogen persisted on average in 98% of people after 6 months and in 97% after a year. Moreover, in patients who underwent a moderate or severe course of COVID-19, the immune response was preserved in 100%

However, immunity, as it turned out, did not persist to all variants of the virus. The average was 90% both after six months and one year later. So, in patients who contracted the UK SARS-Cov-2, antibodies remained after six months in 85% and in 79% - 12 months.

The researchers also noted that as the level of antibodies gradually decreases, including after infection with various variants of SARS-CoV-2, all patients need an annual vaccination, which will strengthen the immune response.

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