Catching a COVID-19 infection is a wild card. We could have no symptoms, or just feel we have the flu. But on the other hand, we could end up in hospital, and even fade away in an induced coma. However, a new study from Israel suggests we could be better off with natural antibodies. Is COVID infection better than a vaccine in terms of protection, if that’s the case?
What Exactly Does the Research Report Say?
The preprint report is on the MedRxiv website per the link below. This means it is breaking news awaiting confirmation through peer review. None the less we can probably take the researchers at their word when they say:
This study demonstrates natural immunity confers longer-lasting and stronger protection against infection, symptomatic disease and hospitalization. That’s from infections caused by the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, compared to the BNT162b2 [Pfizer] two-dose vaccine-induced immunity.
The researchers suggest a COVID infection is better than vaccine by a factor of thirteen. However, this ratio only applies to double doses of Pfizer vaccines.
If a COVID Infection is Better Than a Vaccine – What Then?
The Israeli scientists state their findings and conclusions without making recommendations. They do, however observe previously infected individuals gain further protection from a single dose of Pfizer vaccine.
The research team obtained their data from fully vaccinated, semi-vaccinated, and unvaccinated individuals who recovered from COVID-19. They completed their study between June 1 to August 14, 2021, when the Delta variant was prominent in Israel.
News Medical Life Sciences comments they may have underestimated asymptomatic infections. That’s because they relied on PCR tests seeking whole and fragmented particles of the virus.
They also note Israel administered double Pfizer vaccines early 2021, and their effectiveness would have waned. We note they were unable to allow for behavioral factors such as social distancing and wearing masks. Nonetheless we still believe vaccine protection is a safer option.
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Preview Image: Life Cycle of COVID-19
