Early SARS-CoV-2 Reinfections within 60 Days and Implications for Retesting Policies

Emerg Infect Dis. 2022 Aug;28(8):1729-1731. doi: 10.3201/eid2808.220617. Epub 2022 Jun 23.

Abstract

Illustrated by a clinical case supplemented by epidemiologic data, early reinfections with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 after infection with Delta variant, and reinfection with Omicron BA.2 after Omicron BA.1 infection, can occur within 60 days, especially in young, unvaccinated persons. The case definition of reinfection, which influences retesting policies, should be reconsidered.

Keywords: Belgium; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; coronavirus disease; epidemiology; reinfections; respiratory infections; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; testing policies; vaccination; viruses; zoonoses.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Testing
  • COVID-19* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Policy
  • Reinfection*
  • SARS-CoV-2

Supplementary concepts

  • SARS-CoV-2 variants