Yes, people who have already had COVID-19 can get infected again. While the immune response after recovering from COVID-19 may offer some level of protection against reinfection, it is not guaranteed to provide long-term immunity for everyone.
Several factors can influence the risk of reinfection, such as the severity of the initial infection, the person's age, underlying health conditions, and the viral variants in circulation. Some studies suggest that reinfections are generally less severe than the first infection, but this is not always the case.
The timing of reinfection can vary from person to person. Reinfections can occur within a few weeks after the initial infection or several months later. In some cases, reinfections may happen even after a year or more has passed since the first infection. However, the risk of reinfection generally appears to decrease with time as the immune system develops memory responses to the virus.
It's important to note that vaccination after recovering from COVID-19 can enhance and prolong immunity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that individuals who have had COVID-19 should still receive the complete dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to bolster their immune response and reduce the risk of reinfection.
As our understanding of COVID-19 continues to evolve, ongoing research is being conducted to gain more insights into immunity and reinfection patterns. If you suspect you have been reinfected or have any concerns related to COVID-19, it's best to consult with healthcare professionals for appropriate testing and guidance.