How long does immunity last after a COVID infection? Dr Lara Herrero and Wesley Freppel assess the latest evidence, including the impact vaccination and emerging variants can have.
Obesity found to speed up loss of immunity from COVID vaccines COVID vaccines are very effective, but new research suggests the immune response is not as strong in some groups.
Past COVID infection protects against severe disease: Study A previous bout of COVID-19 reportedly offers the same protection from hospitalisation and death after re-infection as two mRNA vaccinations.
BCG vaccine also boosts non-TB immune system: Study But while BCG is the world’s most commonly used vaccine, it has not been routinely administered in Australia since 1985.
‘Hybrid immunity’ enough to protect healthcare workers: DoH New advice indicates there is not enough evidence to support offering healthcare workers a fourth ‘winter dose’.
Does any chance of herd immunity from COVID exist? Herd immunity was sold as our path out of the pandemic. Associate Professor Hassan Valley explains why nobody is talking about it anymore.
Omicron a ‘significant challenge’ to two-dose vaccination Research suggests the new variant of concern is easily the most adept yet at avoiding antibodies and that ‘significant community spread’ is expected, including among the fully vaccinated.
Is the prospect of herd immunity still alive in Australia? High vaccination rates and low ongoing spread have raised the possibility again, one epidemiologist believes – but uncertainty remains.
One step closer: a COVID vaccine designed for long lasting immunity Experts say a new vaccine candidate targeting T cells is promising. So what could it mean for the global pandemic response?
COVID immunity following natural infection likely short-lived: Study New research suggests reinfection can occur in as little as three months, strengthening the argument for vaccination.