Scientists optimistic on lasting immunity even after mild Covid-19 infections

Scientists in the US believe there is growing evidence that the human immune system can indeed put up a long-lasting defence to the novel coronavirus.

Citing a study conducted by researchers at the University of Arizona which has yet to be peer-reviewed, among others, The New York Times reported that the findings also held for people had suffered only mild forms of the disease.

The data presented in the studies were a "welcome indication" that the body's immune response will have a "good chance of fending off the coronavirus, faster and more fervently than before, if exposed to it again."

Another researcher from the University of Washington, Marion Pepper, reportedly said: "All the pieces are there to have a totally protective immune response."

On a more cautious note, for the conclusions to be confirmed, proof was needed that people who came across the virus a second time were indeed able to fend it off, Dr. Pepper said.

Nevertheless, the researcher added that the lack of unambiguous evidence thus far that people were being reinfected "helps to explain that".