The immunity after COVID-19 infection or after vaccination lasts for about nine months, said the director general of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Balram Bhargava, as he cited evidence from several global and Indian studies.

Dr Bhargava said that evidence also indicates that a strong response was mounted through hybrid immunity which developed among people who were vaccinated after recovering from natural COVID-19 infection. He added that vaccination is necessary for better protection even among those who have had the infection previously.

He further emphasized on the need to wear a mask, avoid gatherings and follow COVID-appropriate protocol even after being vaccinated, adding that vaccinated individuals are also vulnerable. He said that the transmission of the Omicron variant is three to four times more than Delta… (ET Healthworld – TNN, December 31, 2021)