More than half of Americans may have never had COVID-19, according to U.S. government data, leaving scientists wondering whether those who’ve avoided the novel coronavirus might actually be immune to SARS-CoV-2 altogether. This could hold the key to fighting COVID-19.
At this stage in the pandemic, people may be immune due to COVID-19 vaccination, a past infection, or a combination of both. There’s also evidence that some people may be immune to the virus without infection or vaccination at all.
As cases yet again rise in many regions, studying those who have not yet caught COVID-19 has become just as critical as studying those who have. Experts say that people with so-called “super” immunity who appear resistant to the virus without vaccination may hold answers to important questions about why certain people get so sick while others don’t.