How long do antibodies last after COVID-19 infection?
Dr. Finstad: It appears that antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 last for at least several months. One SeroNet study found that people who had mild to moderate COVID-19 had neutralizing antibodies for at least 5 months. Another found similar results—people who recovered from COVID-19 had neutralizing antibodies for 6 months.
Can you get reinfected with COVID-19?
Reinfections can and have happened even shortly after recovery, the researchers said. And they will become increasingly common as immunity wanes and new SARS-CoV-2 variants arise.
Can you get COVID-19 if you already had it and have antibodies?
It is important to remember that some people with antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 may become infected after vaccination (vaccine breakthrough infection) or after recovering from a past infection (reinfected).
Do I need a booster shot if I just had COVID-19?
If you have recently had COVID-19 and are eligible for a booster shot, it’s recommended that you wait to get a booster until four weeks after infection and the recommended time has elapsed since your primary series of either Pfizer or Moderna (6 months) or J&J (2 months).