UHD part of recent Public Health England study highlighting stay at home rules are still important 

UHD has been part of a recent Public Health England (PHE) study showing past Covid-19 infection provides some immunity for at least five months, but people with this immunity may still carry and transmit the virus.

The first report from PHE’s SIREN study found that antibodies from past Covid-19 infection provide 83% protection against reinfection for at least five months and that reinfections in people with antibodies were rare. However, early evidence also suggests a small number of people with antibodies may still be able to carry and transmit Covid-19 highlighting the need to follow infection prevention guidance.

Sarah Orr, senior cardiac/stroke and diabetes research nurse at UHD, said: “The results of the study show that people could still pass the virus on even if they have tested positive in the past and have antibodies themselves.  Although most have immunity, being able to transmit the virus means they could pass it on to friends and family and so it’s essential that people follow the rules and socially distance.

 “Over 150 UHD staff are part of this ongoing study. They provide blood and swab samples every two weeks to enable vital research which will provide answers about the transmission of this virus so we can protect ourselves and our patients. Without them it would be very difficult to assess the impact of the vaccine on infection rates among healthcare workers, so a massive thank you to them.”

The SIREN study will continue to assess whether protection may last for longer, and see if people who contracted the disease in the first wave may now be vulnerable to catching it again.