Can I Get COVID-19 More Than Once?

It can be daunting watching the number of COVID-19 cases increase every day. But one number that is offering some reassurance is the number of people who have recovered – over 90% of cases worldwide. So for those who have had COVID-19, what happens after they have recovered?

With many diseases, you can develop an immunity to it once you have had it, meaning you may not get sick from it again, but it is still unclear if COVID-19 patients can get sick more than once. Experts agree that it is too early to make a definite conclusion based on the limited data available on COVID-19, but that it would be highly unlikely for a person to catch it twice.

Until more data surfaces about COVID-19, it is best stay vigilant and practice these guidelines to keep yourself and others safe:

• Avoid close contact with others, especially anyone who is sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Stay home
• Clean and disinfect surfaces
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer