Are Covid-19 Reinfections Less Likely to Cause Long Covid?
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Synopsis
A groundbreaking study reveals that reinfections with the SARS-CoV-2 virus are less likely to lead to long Covid, a condition impacting millions globally. With evidence showing a significant reduction in risk after reinfection, this research offers hope and insight into long Covid management and patient outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Reinfections with SARS-CoV-2 are less likely to cause long Covid.
- The risk of long Covid is significantly lower after reinfection.
- Over 200 symptoms are associated with long Covid.
- Initial Covid infection shows a higher risk of long Covid compared to reinfections.
- Greater host-specific resistance may play a role in lower long Covid incidence after reinfection.
New Delhi, May 13 (NationPress) A recent study reveals that reinfections with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19, exhibit a lower likelihood of resulting in long Covid — a condition impacting at least 65 million individuals globally.
Long Covid manifests after an infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and, despite lacking a precise definition, it encompasses over 200 distinct symptoms. The risk and severity of long Covid are known to adversely affect self-perceived health, physical abilities, and cognitive functions.
The preprint study, which has not yet undergone peer review, indicated that the incidence of long Covid is just 6 percent following reinfections, in stark contrast to 15 percent following the initial infection.
Commonly reported symptoms among those experiencing long Covid include fatigue, shortness of breath, neurocognitive issues, post-exertional malaise, and disturbances in smell or taste.
According to researchers from Laval University in Quebec, Canada, “Severe symptoms were noted 5 to 22 times more frequently among individuals with long Covid compared to Covid controls, with the exception of fever, cough, insomnia, anxiety, and depression, which were reported 2.7 to 4.5 times more often.”
The study involved a total of 22,496 participants in an online survey and 3,978 individuals surveyed via telephone.
Findings revealed that the likelihood of developing long Covid is two to three times greater after the first infection (14.8 percent). In contrast, the risk dropped to 5.8 percent after the first reinfection and 5.3 percent after the second.
Interestingly, the highest risk for long Covid was associated with infections from the ancestral strain, while the Omicron variant showed the lowest risk.
Despite Omicron being linked to widespread transmission, it was associated with the highest number of long Covid cases.
The researchers concluded, “The study suggests that the risk of long Covid is approximately two-thirds less following reinfection compared to the initial infection. This may be partially due to enhanced host-specific immunity in individuals who did not experience long Covid after their first episode.”
Point of View
I recognize the significance of this research on Covid-19 reinfection and long Covid. With the pandemic continuing to evolve, understanding the nuances of reinfection is crucial for public health education and patient care. This study brings a glimmer of hope for millions affected by long Covid, highlighting the importance of ongoing research and support for those battling the virus.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is long Covid?
Long Covid refers to a range of symptoms that persist after the acute phase of a Covid-19 infection. It can affect various bodily systems and may impact health for months or even years.
How common is long Covid?
Long Covid affects an estimated 65 million people worldwide, making it a significant public health concern.
What are the symptoms of long Covid?
Common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive difficulties, and disturbances in taste or smell.
Does reinfection reduce the risk of long Covid?
Yes, recent studies indicate that the risk of long Covid is approximately two-thirds lower after reinfection compared to the initial infection.
What variants are associated with long Covid?
Research shows that the ancestral strain of SARS-CoV-2 is associated with the highest risk of long Covid, while the Omicron variant has shown a lower risk.
