Some Positive News
Natural COVID Antibodies Can Persist for Up to 7 Months in Young People
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center indicates that children and adolescents who have contracted COVID-19 produce natural antibodies that may last for several months following their initial infection. Beginning in October 2020, the researchers analyzed blood samples taken at intervals from 218 participants aged 5 to 19 years as part of the Texas Coronavirus Antibody REsponse Survey (CARES), which was initiated prior to vaccine availability. From the 218 children, 75, or 34.4%, tested positive for antibodies in their first sample. In the subsequent blood draw, two of those 75 transitioned from positive to negative for antibodies. Notably, the study revealed that 96% of those with antibodies during the second draw retained their natural immunity by the third measurement.
“These results are significant because the data we gathered from COVID-19-infected children showed no variation based on whether they were asymptomatic, the severity of their symptoms, their weight status, or gender. The findings were consistent across the board,” explained Dr. Emily Johnson, the lead author and an epidemiology professor at UTHealth School of Public Health in Dallas.
Despite these findings, 58% of samples tested negative for infection-induced antibodies in the final measurement, underscoring that vaccination remains essential for robust protection against the virus, even for those who have previously been infected. “Research on adults demonstrates that the combination of natural infection and vaccine-induced immunity offers the best defense against COVID-19. Some parents mistakenly believe that having had COVID-19 means their child is fully protected and doesn’t require vaccination,” Dr. Johnson clarified. “While our study is encouraging, showing that some natural antibodies can last for at least six months in children, we still do not know the exact level of protection required. Fortunately, we have effective vaccines available to enhance children’s immunity, so parents should take advantage of this opportunity if their child is eligible.”
Currently, approximately 14 million children in the United States have tested positive for COVID-19.
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Summary
A recent study reveals that natural COVID-19 antibodies in children and teens can last up to seven months post-infection. Conducted by researchers at the University of Texas, the study analyzed blood samples from 218 young participants and found that while many retained antibodies, vaccination remains crucial for comprehensive immunity. With millions of children having contracted COVID-19, understanding the interplay between natural immunity and vaccination is essential for ongoing protection.
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