The researchers analyzed patients convalescing from acute SARS-CoV-2 infections and found that they produced B-cell responses for up to a year after infection. During that year, so-called memory cells not only increased in absolute numbers, but also produced broad and potent antibodies that were active in fighting both the original virus and to many of the variants. When convalescing patients then received an mRNA vaccine after initial recovery, they produced even higher levels of plasma neutralizing antibodies. However, in naïve (not previously infected) individuals, the administration of a vaccine followed by a booster also increased the quantity of antibodies, but the antibodies lacked the potency of those produced in previously infected patients who received subsequent
mRNA vaccination.
As such, the probability of a vaccine strategy providing “Herd Immunity” has moved from arguable to improbable. Part of the problem is that SARS-CoV-2 is not following the patterns of
previous influenza epidemics. It is not a flu that peaks and then disappears within weeks or months.
This is an ever shape-shifting virus, finding new ways to outmaneuver our defenses as evidenced by the occurrence of so-called breakthrough infections. Simply being vaccinated does not ensure that one will not become infected, spread the virus, or become ill (albeit with milder symptoms). Recent data from Israel, the UK, and Provincetown, MA, show the limits of vaccine protection. We must realize that Covid-19 vaccines are now prophylactic therapeutics that mitigate, and sometimes prevent the most serious consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection.