There are some concerning anecdotes emerging from overseas of people who were infected with COVID-19 earlier this year, proven by both PCR (swab) and serology (antibody) testing.

3–4 months after recovery, including with negative PCR tests in that time, a few individuals are now getting re-infected & are getting it more severely the 2nd time. This is worrying but it's consistent with knowledge of other coronaviruses where we do not get long-term immunity.

It also fits with some of the recent studies showing COVID-19 antibody levels are dropping to low levels in a sizable proportion of people after 3 months.

It’s time to stamp out these suggestions of trying for natural herd immunity when we may not even have individual immunity for more than a few months.

In addition, do everything that you can to avoid getting infected the first time if you could be at higher risk of more severe disease from catching it a second time.

Stay home. Stay distanced. Get your shopping delivered to your home if possible or do ‘click and collect’. Use a mask if you have to go to public areas, especially if they are indoors.