🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 135 (from laksa155)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa135.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/","crawl_time":1772188315,"first_indexed_time":1742012305,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,aarp!www,\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ s443","src_root_hash":"2223325636571181335","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Can You Get COVID More Than Once?","meta_descriptions":["With omicron and other coronavirus variants, COVID-19 reinfections are becoming more common. Learn more about catching COVID more than once."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"That said, older adults, immunocompromised individuals and people with underlying conditions that can complicate a coronavirus infection “can still have serious disease” even if they’ve had COVID-19 before, Schaffner says, “because those people don’t respond optimally with their immune systems.”\nResearch is underway to learn whether certain people are more at risk for reinfection. So far, emerging data suggest that individuals who are\nvaccinated\nagainst SARS-CoV-2 and have had COVID-19 are better protected against reinfection than those with natural immunity or vaccination-derived immunity alone. Experts suspect that this so-called hybrid immunity generates a “broader spectrum of antibody response and a broader spectrum of immunity,” leading to a “more potent immune response,” says Alessandro Sette, a professor at La Jolla Institute for Immunology.\nThe CDC recommends that people who have had COVID-19 \nstill get vaccinated\n for this “added protection.” And with BA.5 driving up new cases of COVID-19, as well as hospitalizations from the illness, health officials are urging adults 50 and older to get their second booster shot, if they haven’t already.\nAnother reason to get vaccinated even if you’ve had COVID-19: Data indicate that the rates of \nlong COVID\n in vaccinated individuals who get a breakthrough infection “are roughly half of what they are in those who are unvaccinated,” says Peter Marks, M.D., director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. A new \nCDC report\n reveals that long COVID can affect about 1 in 5 COVID-19 survivors ages 18 to 64; 1 in 4 adults 65 and older are affected by new or lingering symptoms after a SARS-CoV-2 infection.\nUpdated vaccines could curb transmission \nGiven the likelihood that COVID-19 is sticking around and the realization that infection-preventing immunity generated by the virus and the vaccines wanes, periodic revaccination (\nlike the annual flu shot\n) may be necessary as we learn how to best live with the virus, Schaffner says. “And maybe we will have to create an updated COVID vaccine the way we create an updated influenza vaccine on an annual basis,” he adds.\nCOVID-19 vaccine makers are working on a new generation of their products, health officials have confirmed. The hope is that advancements in vaccine technologies — be it a nasal vaccine or a formula that targets more than one variant — could provide even greater protection against infection and reinfection. \nIn the meantime, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of coming down with COVID once, twice or multiple times. These are the same preventive measures that experts have been recommending all along: Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a \nhigh-quality mask\n in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. “If there is a surge, the likelihood of being reinfected is much higher than if there is no virus circulating or a lesser amount of virus circulating,” Sette says.\nAlso, stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines, Adalja urges, and “have a plan for rapidly testing yourself and getting linked to treatments like monoclonal antibodies \nor antivirals\n if you test positive.” \nEditor's Note: This story, originally published June 1, 2022, has been updated to reflect new information.","attrs_markdown":"Javascript is not enabled.\n\nJavascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/#aarp-u-end-of-header)\n\n[Learn how to set up an online mySSA account today to track and manage your Social Security benefits.](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/open-your-online-account\/?cmp=OTH-IMM-SSAccount-AlertBar-Feb2026)\n\n[![AARP Logo Header White 139x36](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarp\/graphics\/aarp_logos\/120x30-aarp-header-logo-red.svg)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/?intcmp=GLOBAL-HDR-BTN-CLK-LOGO-UXDIA \"Homepage\")\n\n- [Join](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/joinnav)\n- [Renew](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/rfrenew)\n\n- - [Membership & Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/all-offers-a-z\/ \"Membership and Benefits\")\n- - [Members Edition](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/ \"members edition\")\n\n[AARP Rewards](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/)\n\n[Help](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/?intcmp=HelpDefaultTest12)\n\n[Register](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/register?promo=MBPHDR)\n\n[Login](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/login \"Login to AARP\")\n\n[Login](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/login \"Login to AARP\")\n\nContent starts here\n\nCLOSE ×\n\nSearch\n\nHealth\n\nAll Topics\n\nEntertainment\n\nHealth\n\nMoney\n\nPolicy & Research\n\nTravel\n\nWork\n\nMember Benefits\n\nCaregiving\n\nGames\n\nRewards\n\nVideos\n\n{\"dropDownLabel\":\"All Topics\",\"dropDownValue\":\"everywhere\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Entertainment\",\"dropDownValue\":\"entertainment\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Health\",\"dropDownValue\":\"health\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Money\",\"dropDownValue\":\"money\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Policy & Research\",\"dropDownValue\":\"research\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Travel\",\"dropDownValue\":\"travel\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Work\",\"dropDownValue\":\"work\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Member Benefits\",\"dropDownValue\":\"member benefits\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Caregiving\",\"dropDownValue\":\"caregiving\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Games\",\"dropDownValue\":\"games\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Rewards\",\"dropDownValue\":\"rewards\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Videos\",\"dropDownValue\":\"videos\"}\n\nSearch\n\nPopular Searches\n\n[Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/)\n\n[Car rental](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/carrental\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP daily Crossword Puzzle](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/daily-crossword)\n\n[Hotels with AARP discounts](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/hotels\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[Life Insurance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/life\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP Dental Insurance Plans](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/delta-dental\/)\n\n[Travel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/)\n\nSuggested Links\n\n[Help](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/)   [Show me my account info](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/show-me-my-account-info)   [Change my Address](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/i-want-to-change-my-address)   [How do I contact AARP?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/contact-aarp)   [Where is my membership card?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/where-is-my-membership-card)   [How do I get a digital card?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/how-do-i-access-my-aarp-digital-card-via-aarp-now-app)\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![Red Membership Card ](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/features\/membership\/header-search-membership-promo\/default\/anonymous\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/container\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png\/content\/dam\/aarp\/uxdia\/icons\/membership-card-with-shadow.png)\n\nAARP Membership — \\$15 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal\n\nGet instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.\n\n[Join Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisjoin)\n\n[Renew Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisrenew)\n\nCLOSE ×\n\nSearch\n\nAll Topics\n\nAll Topics\n\nEntertainment\n\nHealth\n\nMoney\n\nPolicy & Research\n\nTravel\n\nWork\n\nMember Benefits\n\nCaregiving\n\nGames\n\nRewards\n\nVideos\n\n{\"dropDownLabel\":\"All Topics\",\"dropDownValue\":\"everywhere\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Entertainment\",\"dropDownValue\":\"entertainment\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Health\",\"dropDownValue\":\"health\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Money\",\"dropDownValue\":\"money\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Policy & Research\",\"dropDownValue\":\"research\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Travel\",\"dropDownValue\":\"travel\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Work\",\"dropDownValue\":\"work\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Member Benefits\",\"dropDownValue\":\"member benefits\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Caregiving\",\"dropDownValue\":\"caregiving\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Games\",\"dropDownValue\":\"games\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Rewards\",\"dropDownValue\":\"rewards\"},{\"dropDownLabel\":\"Videos\",\"dropDownValue\":\"videos\"}\n\nSearch\n\nPopular Searches\n\n[Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/)\n\n[Car rental](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/carrental\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP daily Crossword Puzzle](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/daily-crossword)\n\n[Hotels with AARP discounts](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/hotels\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[Life Insurance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/life\/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-BENEFITS-EWHERE)\n\n[AARP Dental Insurance Plans](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/insurance\/delta-dental\/)\n\n[Travel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/)\n\nSuggested Links\n\n[Help](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/)   [Show me my account info](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/show-me-my-account-info)   [Change my Address](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/i-want-to-change-my-address)   [How do I contact AARP?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/contact-aarp)   [Where is my membership card?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/where-is-my-membership-card)   [How do I get a digital card?](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/article\/how-do-i-access-my-aarp-digital-card-via-aarp-now-app)\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![Red Membership Card ](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/features\/membership\/header-search-membership-promo\/default\/anonymous\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/container\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png\/content\/dam\/aarp\/uxdia\/icons\/membership-card-with-shadow.png)\n\nAARP Membership — \\$15 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal\n\nGet instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.\n\n[Join Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisjoin)\n\n[Renew Now](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/orgisrenew)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![the help icon]()](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/?intcmp=AE-HP-HDR-HELP)\n\n[Join](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/joinnav?intcmp=GLOBAL-HDR-BTN-CLK-MPROMO-JOIN-UXDIA-DEFAULT)\n\n[Renew](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/rfrenew?intcmp=GLOBAL-HDR-BTN-CLK-MPROMO-RENEW-UXDIA-DEFAULT)\n\n[AARP en Español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/ \"Link to spanish homepage\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![the help icon]()](https:\/\/help.aarp.org\/s\/?intcmp=AE-HP-HDR-HELP)\n\n- [AARP en Español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/)\n- [Membership & Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/all-offers-a-z\/)\n- [Members Edition](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/)\n- [AARP Rewards](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/)\n\n- [AARP en Español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/)\n- [Membership & Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/all-offers-a-z\/)\n- [Members Edition](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/)\n- [AARP Rewards %{points}%](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/)\n\n- right\\_container\n- Health\n- Money\n- Work & Jobs\n- Advocacy\n- Social Security\n- Medicare\n- Caregiving\n- Games\n- Travel\n- More...\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Health](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/ \"link to health page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Healthy Living](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/healthy-living\/ \"link to healthy living topic page\")\n\n[Conditions & Treatments](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/ \"Link to conditions and treatment page\")\n\n[Drugs & Supplements](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/ \"link to drugs and supplements page\")\n\n[Health Care & Coverage](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/healthcare\/ \"link to health insurance page\")\n\n[Health Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/health\/ \"AARP Health & Wellness Benefits\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/hearing-resource-center\/ \"Advice on Tinnitus and Hearing Loss\")\n\nAARP Hearing Center\n\n[Advice on Tinnitus and Hearing Loss](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/hearing-resource-center\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![gloved hand holding a vaccine vial with a syringe in the background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/vaccines-after-50\/ \"What to Know About Vaccines\")\n\nYour Health\n\n[What to Know About Vaccines](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/vaccines-after-50\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![An illustration of a brain palette on a pink background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/brain-health\/ \"Tools and Explainers on Brain Health\")\n\nBrain Health Resources\n\n[Tools and Explainers on Brain Health](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/brain-health\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![illustration of a woman doing a leg unge in her living room]()](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/programOptIn?promo=RWDFIT&ref=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/earn\/fitness\/30daychallenge\/ \"30-Day Couch-to-Fit Challenge\")\n\nFitness\n\n[30-Day Couch-to-Fit Challenge](https:\/\/secure.aarp.org\/applications\/user\/programOptIn?promo=RWDFIT&ref=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/rewards\/earn\/fitness\/30daychallenge\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Money](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/ \"Link to money channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Scams & Fraud](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/scams-fraud\/ \"link to scams and fraud landing page\")\n\n[Personal Finance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/ \"link to personal finance page\")\n\n[Taxes](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/taxes\/ \"Link to taxes landing page\")\n\n[Retirement](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/retirement\/ \"Link to retirement landing page\")\n\n[Money Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/finance\/ \"AARP Money Benefits\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/scams-fraud\/tracking-map\/ \"View and Report Scams in Your Area\")\n\nScams & Fraud\n\n[View and Report Scams in Your Area](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/scams-fraud\/tracking-map\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![top view montage of brightly colored donation coin collection containers that all read, \"Please Give Generously\"]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/charitable-giving-quiz\/ \"Take the Charitable Giving Quiz\")\n\nGiving Back\n\n[Take the Charitable Giving Quiz](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/charitable-giving-quiz\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/retirement\/retirement-calculator\/ \"AARP Retirement Calculator\")\n\nRetirement\n\n[AARP Retirement Calculator](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/retirement\/retirement-calculator\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/ways-to-save-at-the-supermarket\/ \"25 Ways to Save at the Grocery Store\")\n\nYour Money\n\n[25 Ways to Save at the Grocery Store](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/money\/personal-finance\/ways-to-save-at-the-supermarket\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Work & Jobs](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/ \"Link to work and jobs channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Job Search](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/ \"link to job search landing page\")\n\n[Careers](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/careers\/ \"link to the careers landing page\")\n\n[Small Business](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/small-business\/ \"link to small business landing page\")\n\n[Employers](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/employers\/ \"Link to the employers landing page\")\n\n[Age Discrimination](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/age-discrimination\/ \"Link to the age discrimination landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/finance\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/indeed-career-services\/ \"Job Search Help from AARP and Indeed\")\n\nFlexible Work\n\n[Job Search Help from AARP and Indeed](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/indeed-career-services\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/skills-builder\/ \"Online Courses to Boost Your Career\")\n\nAARP Skills Builder\n\n[Online Courses to Boost Your Career](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/skills-builder\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/retiree-part-time-jobs\/ \"Part-Time Jobs (No Degree Required!)\")\n\nFlexible Work\n\n[Part-Time Jobs (No Degree Required!)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/work\/job-search\/retiree-part-time-jobs\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a person on a laptop screen with various icons around it]()](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/workjobs-hub\/en\/home?utm_medium=dotorg&utm_source=aarp&utm_campaign=workjobs-turnkey-webinar-hubpage-2024&utm_content=evergreen-top-nav&cmp=OTH-IMM-WORKJOBS-WEBINAR-HOUSE_TOPNAV \"Tips to Enhance Your Job Search\")\n\nON-DEMAND WEBINARS\n\n[Tips to Enhance Your Job Search](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/workjobs-hub\/en\/home?utm_medium=dotorg&utm_source=aarp&utm_campaign=workjobs-turnkey-webinar-hubpage-2024&utm_content=evergreen-top-nav&cmp=OTH-IMM-WORKJOBS-WEBINAR-HOUSE_TOPNAV)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Advocacy](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/ \"Link to advocacy channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/more-medicare-drug-price-negotiations-2025\/ \"Saving You RX Dollars\")\n\nDrug Prices\n\n[Saving You RX Dollars](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/more-medicare-drug-price-negotiations-2025\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/call-on-congress-protect-social-security-2025\/ \"Fighting to Protect Social Security\")\n\nSocial Security\n\n[Fighting to Protect Social Security](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/call-on-congress-protect-social-security-2025\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/safeguard-medicaid-2025\/ \"Advocating for Strong Programs\")\n\nMedicare & Medicaid\n\n[Advocating for Strong Programs](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/safeguard-medicaid-2025\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/100-reasons-support-family-caregivers-2025\/ \"Supporting Family Caregivers\")\n\nCaregiving\n\n[Supporting Family Caregivers](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/100-reasons-support-family-caregivers-2025\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Social Security](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/)\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/socialsecurity-hub\/en\/home \"Navigating important Social Security decisions? We Can Help.\")\n\nWebinars\n\n[Navigating important Social Security decisions? We Can Help.](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/socialsecurity-hub\/en\/home)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![ask a a r p on a red background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/ \"Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Social Security\")\n\nTool\n\n[Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Social Security](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/retirement\/basics\/ \"10 Things You Need to Know About Social Security\")\n\nBasics\n\n[10 Things You Need to Know About Social Security](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/retirement\/basics\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/benefits-calculator\/ \"Social Security Benefits Calculator: Maximize Your Benefits\")\n\nTools\n\n[Social Security Benefits Calculator: Maximize Your Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-security\/benefits-calculator\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/)\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Approaching Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/approaching-medicare\/ \"Link to approaching medicare pathway overview\")\n\n[Enrolling in Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/enrolling-medicare\/ \"link to parts of enrolling in medicare pathway overview\")\n\n[Managing Costs & Coverage](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/managing-costs-coverage\/ \"link to managing medicare costs pathway overview\")\n\n[Getting Help](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/getting-help\/ \"link to getting help with medicare series\")\n\n[Latest News](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/medicare\/latest-news\/ \"link to the latest medicare news\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Ask A A R P. A I powered help from trusted A A R P sources. Illustration of a man using a laptop]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/ \"Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Medicare \")\n\nTool\n\n[Ask AARP: AI-powered Tool to Get the Most Out of Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/ask-aarp\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![illustration of a clipboard with a checklist and medical cross on it]()](https:\/\/navigator.aarp.org\/en_gb\/courses\/course\/17 \"Take This Course to Feel Prepared About Enrolling in Medicare \")\n\nAARP Navigator\n\n[Take This Course to Feel Prepared About Enrolling in Medicare](https:\/\/navigator.aarp.org\/en_gb\/courses\/course\/17)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a red and white illustration showing a woman in a monitor flanked by a word bubble and a calendar]()](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/medicare-hub\/en\/home?cmp=OTH-CSN-LEARN-MULTI-MEDICARE \"Get Answers to Medicare Questions With Our On-demand Webinars \")\n\nOn-Demand Webinars\n\n[Get Answers to Medicare Questions With Our On-demand Webinars](https:\/\/virtualevents.aarp.org\/medicare-hub\/en\/home?cmp=OTH-CSN-LEARN-MULTI-MEDICARE)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Medical stethoscope and US flag on a pink background signifying advocacy]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/#medicare \"Learn How AARP is Fighting for Better Medicare\")\n\nAdvocacy\n\n[Learn How AARP is Fighting for Better Medicare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/advocacy\/#medicare)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Caregiving](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/ \"Link to caregiving channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"Link to close menu\")\n\n[Basics](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/basics\/ \"Link to basics laning page\")\n\n[Care at Home](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/home-care\/ \"Link to care at home landing page\")\n\n[Medical](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/medical\/ \"Link to medical landing page\")\n\n[Financial & Legal](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/financial-legal\/ \"Link to the finance and legal landing page\")\n\n[Life Balance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/life-balance\/ \"Link to life balance landing page\")\n\n[Local](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/local\/ \"Link to the local landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/caregiving\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![person stands at a door marked with a first aid cross there are a series of many doors and the person is wondering which is the best choice]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/financial-legal\/understanding-long-term-care-insurance\/ \"Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance\")\n\nLONG-TERM CARE\n\n[Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/financial-legal\/understanding-long-term-care-insurance\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![illustration of a map with an icon of a person helping another person with a cane navigate towards caregiving]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/care-connect\/resources\/ \"Assistance and Services in Your Area\")\n\nState Guides\n\n[Assistance and Services in Your Area](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/care-connect\/resources\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/prepare-to-care-planning-guide\/ \"How to Develop a Caregiving Plan\")\n\nPrepare to Care Guides\n\n[How to Develop a Caregiving Plan](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/prepare-to-care-planning-guide\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Close up of a hospice nurse holding the hands of one of her patients]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grief-loss-end-of-life\/ \"How to Cope With Grief, Loss\")\n\nEnd of Life\n\n[How to Cope With Grief, Loss](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grief-loss-end-of-life\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/)\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"Link to close menu\")\n\n[All](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/all-games\/ \"Link to the AARP All Games landing page\")\n\n[Recently Played](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/category\/recently-played \"Link to AARP recently played games\")\n\n[Word & Trivia](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/word\/ \"Link to AARP Games Word and Trivia category landing page\")\n\n[Rewards](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/rewards-games\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Rewards category landing age\")\n\n[Atari® & Retro](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/atari-games\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Atari and Retro category landing page\")\n\n[Mahjongg](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/mahjongg\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Mahjongg category landing page\")\n\n[Members Only](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/members\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Members Only category landing page\")\n\n[Staying Sharp](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/staying-sharp\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Staying Sharp category landing page\")\n\n[Solitare](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/solitaire\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Solitare category landing page\")\n\n[New Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/new\/ \"Link to new games webpage\")\n\n[Strategy](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/strategy\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Strategy category landing page\")\n\n[Arcade](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/arcade\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Arcade category landing page\")\n\n[Puzzles](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/puzzles\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Puzzle category landing page\")\n\n[Card](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/card\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Card category landing page\")\n\n[Juegos](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/juegos-espanol\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Juegos category landing page\")\n\n[Daily](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/daily-games\/ \"Link to the AARP Games Daily category landing page\")\n\n[Game Shows](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/game-shows\/ \"Learn more about the game show\")\n\n[Multiplayer](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/multiplayer-games\/ \"Learn more about the multiplayer games\")\n\n[More About Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/more-on-games\/ \"Learn more about A A R P games\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![AARP Right Again Trivia and AARP Rewards]()](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia \"Right Again! Trivia\")\n\n[Right Again! Trivia](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![AARP Right Again Trivia Sports and AARP Rewards]()](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia-sports \"Right Again! Trivia – Sports\")\n\n[Right Again! Trivia – Sports](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/right-again-trivia-sports)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Atari, Centipede, Pong, Breakout, Missile Command Asteroids]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/atari-games\/ \"Atari® Video Games\")\n\n[Atari® Video Games](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/games\/category\/atari-games\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Throwback Thursday Crossword and AARP Rewards]()](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/throwback-thursday-crossword \"Throwback Thursday Crossword\")\n\n[Throwback Thursday Crossword](https:\/\/games.aarp.org\/games\/throwback-thursday-crossword)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Travel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/ \"Link to travel channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"Link to close menu\")\n\n[Travel Tips](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/ \"Link to travel tips page\")\n\n[Vacation Ideas](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/vacation-ideas\/ \"Link to vacation ideas landing page\")\n\n[Destinations](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/destinations\/ \"Link to destinations landing page\")\n\n[Travel Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/travel\/ \"AARP Travel Benefits\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/vacation-ideas\/affordable-off-peak-getaways\/ \"Budget-Friendly Locations\")\n\nOFF-PEAK TRAVEL\n\n[Budget-Friendly Locations](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/vacation-ideas\/affordable-off-peak-getaways\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/real-id-questions\/ \"No Real ID? $45 Fee Starts Feb. 1\")\n\nNEW TSA FEE\n\n[No Real ID? \\$45 Fee Starts Feb. 1](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/real-id-questions\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/luxury-travel-retirement-budget\/ \"How to Travel on a Retirement Budget\")\n\nLUXURY TRAVEL FOR LESS\n\n[How to Travel on a Retirement Budget](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/luxury-travel-retirement-budget\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/preserve-trip-memories\/ \"Ideas to Capture Vacation Moments\")\n\nPRESERVE TRIP MEMORIES\n\n[Ideas to Capture Vacation Moments](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/travel\/travel-tips\/preserve-trip-memories\/)\n\n- Entertainment & Style\n- Family & Relationships\n- Personal Tech\n- Home & Living\n- Auto\n- Staying Sharp\n- Podcasts\n- Videos\n- Events\n- AARP Near You\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Entertainment & Style](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/ \"Link to entertainment channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Movies](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/movies-for-grownups\/ \"Link to movies laning page\")\n\n[TV](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/television\/ \"Link to television landing page\")\n\n[Music](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/music\/ \"Link to the music landing page\")\n\n[Celebrities](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/celebrities\/ \"Link to the celebrity landing page\")\n\n[Beauty & Style](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/beauty-style\/ \"Link to beauty and style landing page\")\n\n[Books](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/books\/ \"Link to books landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/entertainment\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/beauty-style\/winter-white-fashion-tips\/ \"Getting Winter White, Right!\")\n\nBeauty & Style\n\n[Getting Winter White, Right\\!](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/beauty-style\/winter-white-fashion-tips\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/movies-for-grownups\/movie-preview-2026\/ \"2026 Movie Preview\")\n\nMovies for Grownups\n\n[2026 Movie Preview](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/movies-for-grownups\/movie-preview-2026\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/music\/essential-songs-for-gen-x\/ \"Essential Songs for Gen Xers\")\n\nMUSIC\n\n[Essential Songs for Gen Xers](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/entertainment\/music\/essential-songs-for-gen-x\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Family & Relationships](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family-relationships\/ \"Link to family and relationships landing page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![graphic of a man and a woman with a cherry in their mouths]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/in-the-mood\/ \"Your Questions Answered\")\n\nSex & Dating\n\n[Your Questions Answered](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/members-edition\/in-the-mood\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grandparents\/ \"Everything You Need to Know\")\n\nGrandparenting\n\n[Everything You Need to Know](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/caregiving\/grandparents\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family-relationships\/great-ways-to-bond-with-your-dog\/ \"Great Ways to Bond With Your Dog\")\n\nPets\n\n[Great Ways to Bond With Your Dog](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/family-relationships\/great-ways-to-bond-with-your-dog\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Personal Tech](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/ \"link to personal tech landing page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a tablet displaying smart home controls in a living room]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/caregiving-smart-home-technology\/ \"Caregiver’s Guide to Smart Home Tech\")\n\nHome Technology\n\n[Caregiver’s Guide to Smart Home Tech](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/caregiving-smart-home-technology\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-connections\/ \"Creating Social Connections\")\n\nGet Happier\n\n[Creating Social Connections](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/social-connections\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![a hand is touching computer signals on a blue background]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/artificial-intelligence\/ \"Weighing the Perils and Positives\")\n\nPOSSIBILITIES OF AI\n\n[Weighing the Perils and Positives](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/personal-technology\/artificial-intelligence\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Home & Living](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/ \"link to your home landing page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/fall-prevention-safety-tips\/ \"Tips to Prevent Dangerous Falls\")\n\nSAFE AT HOME\n\n[Tips to Prevent Dangerous Falls](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/fall-prevention-safety-tips\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/is-over-55-community-right-for-you\/ \"Is a 55+ Community Right for You?\")\n\nAGING IN PLACE\n\n[Is a 55+ Community Right for You?](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/is-over-55-community-right-for-you\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/guide-to-getting-rid-of-anything\/ \"What to Do With Your Unwanted Stuff\")\n\nDeclutter\n\n[What to Do With Your Unwanted Stuff](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/home-living\/guide-to-getting-rid-of-anything\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Auto](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/ \"Link to auto channel page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Car Buying](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-buying\/ \"Link to car buying landing page\")\n\n[Driver Safety](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/ \"Link to driver safety landing page\")\n\n[Maintenance & Safety](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-maintenance-safety\/ \"Link to maintenance and safety page\")\n\n[Trends & Technology](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/trends-technology\/ \"Link to car trends and technology landing page\")\n\n[Member Benefits](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/auto\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![]() MEMBERS ONLY](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-buying\/new-car-forever-subscription-fees\/ \"Beware of Subscription Fees\")\n\nCAR BUYING\n\n[Beware of Subscription Fees](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/car-buying\/new-car-forever-subscription-fees\/)\n\nMEMBERS ONLY\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![older woman and mother with locked arms walking and talking outside]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/we-need-to-talk\/ \"Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills\")\n\nWe Need To Talk\n\n[Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/we-need-to-talk\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![AARP]()](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/ \"AARP Smart Driver Course\")\n\nDriver Safety\n\n[AARP Smart Driver Course](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/auto\/driver-safety\/)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Staying Sharp](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/ \"Link to staying sharp website\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close menu\")\n\n[Assessment](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/assessment\/ \"Link to the assesment landing page\")\n\n[Challenges](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/challenges\/ \"Link to challenge landing page\")\n\n[Articles](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/articles\/ \"Link to staying sharp articles landing page\")\n\n[Videos](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/videos\/ \"Link to the staying sharp videos landing page\")\n\n[Recipes](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/recipes\/ \"Link to staying sharp recipes landing page\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![A woman using a tablet inside by a window]()](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/resilience \"Building Resilience in Difficult Times\")\n\n[Building Resilience in Difficult Times](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/resilience)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![A close-up view of a stack of rocks]()](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/find-your-calm\/ \"Tips for Finding Your Calm\")\n\n[Tips for Finding Your Calm](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/themes\/find-your-calm\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![A woman unpacking her groceries at home]()](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/challenges\/weight-loss-after-50 \"Weight Loss After 50 Challenge\")\n\n[Weight Loss After 50 Challenge](https:\/\/stayingsharp.aarp.org\/challenges\/weight-loss-after-50)\n\n[Back](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Podcasts](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/podcasts\/ \"Link to the Podcast landing page\")\n\n[Close Menu](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/ \"link to close 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A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.\n\n[Continue](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/) [Cancel](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n\n[Health](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/)\n\n# How Many Times Can You Get COVID?\n## Reinfections become more common as the pandemic presses on\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![overhead view of someone holding a positive home covid test](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/_jcr_content\/root\/container_main\/container_body_main\/container_image\/articlecontentfragme\/cfimage.coreimg.75.1440.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/health\/conditions_treatments\/2022\/06\/1140-positive-covid-test.jpg)\n\nd3sign \/ getty images\n\n- [Facebook](http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n- [Twitter](http:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/&related=CreateTheGood&text=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/&title=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?)\n\nBy\n\nRachel Nania,\n\nUpdated  July 15, 2022\n\nAARP\n\n[En español](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/espanol\/salud\/enfermedades-y-tratamientos\/info-2022\/cuantas-veces-puedes-contagiarte-covid.html)\n\nPublished  June 01, 2022\n\n\/ Updated  July 15, 2022\n\nThe virus that causes [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/coronavirus-facts\/ \"covid faq\") (known as SARS-CoV-2) has been circulating for more than two years, and experts say it’s not going away anytime soon.\n\nAt this point, most of the U.S. population has already been infected, according to a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [study](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/mmwr\/volumes\/71\/wr\/mm7117e3.htm \"CDC covid reinfection\"), and some people have had COVID-19 more than once. In fact, reinfections have become more common in recent months, and experts say that trend is expected to continue.\n\nMembers only\n\n[aarp\/aarp-foundation]()\n\n[Give now to Help Seniors Facing Poverty Over 39 million adults 50+ struggle to make ends meet. Your gift to AARP Foundation®, a charitable affiliate of AARP, helps build economic opportunity for vulnerable seniors.](https:\/\/foundation.aarp.org\/site\/Donation\/2024-aarp-promos)\n\nMembers only\n\n“Everybody is going to be infected with COVID-19 multiple times in their lifetime,” predicts Amesh Adalja, M.D., an infectious disease physician and senior scholar at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.\n\nReasons run the gamut. Experts point to waning immunity from previous infections as well as from vaccines, which have been available to most adults for more than a year now. Studies show that the shots, and especially the boosters, still hold strong when it comes to fighting off [severe illness and death](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/mmwr\/volumes\/71\/wr\/mm7112e1.htm \"vaccine booster effectiveness\"), but their ability to block transmission fades over time.\n\nThen there’s the emergence of highly contagious variants, most notably [omicron and its sibling strains](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/omicron-subvariant-facts\/ \"omicron subvariant\"). The mutations that omicron amassed “allow it to get around some of the immunity that is engendered after people have been infected or been vaccinated,” Adalja says. “Those mutations are facilitating those reinfections.” Data from the United Kingdom shows that [reinfections surged](https:\/\/coronavirus.data.gov.uk\/details\/cases?areaType=nation&areaName=England \"UK reinfections\") in January after the arrival of the omicron variant, followed by a second wave in March and April. Reinfections tracked in New York state [follow a similar pattern](https:\/\/coronavirus.health.ny.gov\/covid-19-reinfection-data \"COVID reinfection data\").\n\nMembers only\n\n[Family Caregiving]()\n\n[AARP Caregiving Online Community Connect with other caregivers, share advice and find support](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/membership\/benefits\/caregiving\/aarp-caregiving-online-community\/)\n\nMembers only\n\nFewer masks and less handwashing and social distancing have also contributed to the rise in repeat infections, [points out](https:\/\/health.clevelandclinic.org\/can-you-get-covid-19-more-than-once\/ \"covid more than once\") Frank Esper, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic. And we can’t ignore family history. Four other seasonal coronaviruses have been circulating the globe for decades, causing almost one-third of common colds. (Rhinoviruses are the most common culprit; adenoviruses are another common cause.)\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![newsletter-naw-tablet](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/next-action-widgets\/newsletter_naw\/Newsletter_NAW\/health\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/QA_bucket\/widgetimages\/newsletter_NAW_tablet.jpg)\n\nAARP NEWSLETTERS\n\n![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg)\n\n![Mujer leyendo tableta](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/next-action-widgets\/newsletter_naw\/Newsletter_NAW\/health\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/container\/container\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png\/content\/dam\/aarp\/QA_bucket\/widgetimages\/newsletter_NAW_desktop.png)\n\nGet the Your Health newsletter from AARP\n\n**Sign up for the latest health news, fitness and nutrition updates and more\\!**\n\n[See All Newsletters](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/newsletters\/)\n\n[Privacy Hub](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/privacy\/ \"privacy hub link\")\n\nARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT\n\n- [Facebook](http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/)\n- [Twitter](http:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/&related=CreateTheGood&text=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/&title=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?)\n\n“It’s clear from the study of those coronaviruses, those cousins to COVID, that the protection you get after an infection wanes after a period of time,” says William Schaffner, M.D., a professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. That’s why you can get repeated coronavirus-caused colds over the years. And it appears that the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is “similar in that regard,” Schaffner says.\n\n### **Reinfections tend to be milder in most**\nHow long you’re protected from catching COVID-19 after already having had it — and how secure that protection is — is not well established, Schaffner says. “And it probably varies, depending upon which variant infected you.”\n\nIf you’re among the millions of Americans who have had COVID-19 caused by the [omicron variant](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/omicron-variant-infection-symptoms\/ \"omicron symptoms\") this winter or spring, you may be susceptible to another infection sooner than you think. “People with prior infection, even with \\[omicron subvariants\\] BA.1 or BA.2, are likely still at risk for BA.4 or BA.5,” CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said in a July 12 press briefing.\n\nBA.5, another subvariant of omicron, is now the dominant variant circulating in the U.S., accounting for about 65 percent of COVID-19 cases; BA. 4, also part of the omicron family, is behind about 16 percent of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.\n\nThe good news: For many, repeat infections tend to be milder. Having already been acquainted with the virus, Adalja explains, the immune system is better able “to jump into action pretty quickly” and help keep the virus from taking hold.\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![limited-time flash sale yellow gradient background with light rays](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/experience-fragments\/uxdia-folder-structure\/en\/next-action-widgets\/membership-promo-naw\/default\/anonymous\/_jcr_content\/root\/responsivegrid\/container_copy\/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/members\/2026\/q1-membership-sale-2026\/1140x655-fy26-q1-flashsale.jpg)](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/ORGARTJ?&defaultoffer=60&rd%252060)\n\nFlash Sale — AARP Membership Offer\n\nJoin AARP for only \\$11 per year with a 5-year membership. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of benefits, a free second membership, and a subscription to *AARP The Magazine.*\n\n[Join AARP](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/ORGARTJ?&defaultoffer=60&rd%252060)\n\nARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT\n\nThat said, older adults, immunocompromised individuals and people with underlying conditions that can complicate a coronavirus infection “can still have serious disease” even if they’ve had COVID-19 before, Schaffner says, “because those people don’t respond optimally with their immune systems.”\n\nResearch is underway to learn whether certain people are more at risk for reinfection. So far, emerging data suggest that individuals who are [vaccinated](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/coronavirus-vaccine-research\/ \"covid vaccine info\") against SARS-CoV-2 and have had COVID-19 are better protected against reinfection than those with natural immunity or vaccination-derived immunity alone. Experts suspect that this so-called hybrid immunity generates a “broader spectrum of antibody response and a broader spectrum of immunity,” leading to a “more potent immune response,” says Alessandro Sette, a professor at La Jolla Institute for Immunology.\n\nThe CDC recommends that people who have had COVID-19 [still get vaccinated](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-ncov\/vaccines\/expect.html \"CDC vaccine info\") for this “added protection.” And with BA.5 driving up new cases of COVID-19, as well as hospitalizations from the illness, health officials are urging adults 50 and older to get their second booster shot, if they haven’t already.\n\nAnother reason to get vaccinated even if you’ve had COVID-19: Data indicate that the rates of [long COVID](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/long-covid-symptoms\/ \"long covid symptoms\") in vaccinated individuals who get a breakthrough infection “are roughly half of what they are in those who are unvaccinated,” says Peter Marks, M.D., director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. A new [CDC report](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/mmwr\/volumes\/71\/wr\/mm7121e1.htm?s_cid=mm7121e1_w \"long covid cdc\") reveals that long COVID can affect about 1 in 5 COVID-19 survivors ages 18 to 64; 1 in 4 adults 65 and older are affected by new or lingering symptoms after a SARS-CoV-2 infection.\n\n### **Updated vaccines could curb transmission **\nGiven the likelihood that COVID-19 is sticking around and the realization that infection-preventing immunity generated by the virus and the vaccines wanes, periodic revaccination ([like the annual flu shot](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/info-2021\/high-dose-flu-vaccines.html \"flu vaccines\")) may be necessary as we learn how to best live with the virus, Schaffner says. “And maybe we will have to create an updated COVID vaccine the way we create an updated influenza vaccine on an annual basis,” he adds.\n\nCOVID-19 vaccine makers are working on a new generation of their products, health officials have confirmed. The hope is that advancements in vaccine technologies — be it a nasal vaccine or a formula that targets more than one variant — could provide even greater protection against infection and reinfection.\n\nIn the meantime, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of coming down with COVID once, twice or multiple times. These are the same preventive measures that experts have been recommending all along: Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a [high-quality mask](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/one-way-masking\/ \"one way masking\") in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. “If there is a surge, the likelihood of being reinfected is much higher than if there is no virus circulating or a lesser amount of virus circulating,” Sette says.\n\nAlso, stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines, Adalja urges, and “have a plan for rapidly testing yourself and getting linked to treatments like monoclonal antibodies [or antivirals](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/paxlovid-covid-treatment\/ \"paxlovid\") if you test positive.”\n\n*Editor's Note: This story, originally published June 1, 2022, has been updated to reflect new information.*\n\n*Rachel Nania is an award-winning health editor and writer at AARP.org, who covers a range of topics including diseases and treatments.*\n\nMORE ON CORONAVIRUS\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![man sneezing outdoors](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/_jcr_content\/root\/container_main\/container_body_main\/container_body3\/container_body_cf\/container_additional_3\/container_2123475527\/featuredlist\/tabItem\/paxlovid-covid-rebound1.coreimg.50.932.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/health\/conditions_treatments\/2022\/05\/1140-man-sneezing.jpg)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/paxlovid-covid-rebound\/ \"What to Know About COVID Rebound After Paxlovid\")\n\n[What to Know About COVID Rebound After Paxlovid](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/paxlovid-covid-rebound\/)\n\n[Some people see symptoms return after treatment ends](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/paxlovid-covid-rebound\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![doctor uses an alcohol swab to prepare the injection site of the patient's arm](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/_jcr_content\/root\/container_main\/container_body_main\/container_body3\/container_body_cf\/container_additional_3\/container_2123475527\/featuredlist\/tabItem\/second-booster-covid-immunity2.coreimg.50.932.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/health\/conditions_treatments\/2022\/04\/1140-doctor-prepping-vaccine.jpg)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/second-booster-covid-immunity\/ \"Improve Your Immune Response to Second Booster\")\n\n[Improve Your Immune Response to Second Booster](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/second-booster-covid-immunity\/)\n\n[What to do before and after the extra COVID shot](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/second-booster-covid-immunity\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/etc\/uxdia\/images\/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![n95 disposable particulate respirators](https:\/\/cdn.aarp.net\/content\/dam\/aarpe\/en\/home\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/_jcr_content\/root\/container_main\/container_body_main\/container_body3\/container_body_cf\/container_additional_3\/container_2123475527\/featuredlist\/tabItem\/reusing-n95-masks3.coreimg.50.932.jpeg\/content\/dam\/aarp\/health\/conditions_treatments\/2022\/01\/1140-n95-respirators.jpg)](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/reusing-n95-masks\/ \"Can You Reuse an N95 Mask?\")\n\n[Can You Reuse an N95 Mask?](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/reusing-n95-masks\/)\n\n[Plus other key things to know about wearing a respirator ](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/reusing-n95-masks\/)\n\n{ \"maxItems\":3, \"itemsPerRow\":\"3\", \"rows\":\"4\", \"loadMore\":\"6\", \"adsNum\":\"0\", \"resultsLength\":\"3\" }\n\n[%{postComment}%](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/covid-reinfection\/#comments_widget_id)\n\nUnlock Access to AARP Members Edition\n\n[Join AARP to Continue](https:\/\/appsec.aarp.org\/mem\/join?campaignID=UBJFMOA23&intcmp=MEM-ONLY-ACCESS)\n\nAlready a Member? 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Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of benefits, a free second membership, and a subscription to *AARP The Magazine.*\n\n[Join AARP](https:\/\/join.aarp.org\/ORGARTJ?&defaultoffer=60&rd%252060)\n\nARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT\n\n## Conversation\nFollow this conversation to be notified when new comments are postedfollow\n\nLog in\n\n\\|\n\nRegister\n\n![Jump to log in or sign Up](https:\/\/cdn.viafoura.net\/assets\/defaultavatar.913f94a2fa72a280b0374131f1c9b175.png)\n\nAll Comments12\n\nNEWEST\n\n**0**\n\n### All Comments\n1. #### Comment by PamelaW160932.\n   Pa\n   \n   PamelaW160932\n   \n   November 5, 2022\n   \n   I've noticed there are expiration dates on th e free covid tests that the goverment sent out last year and are now expired. Can we still use or toss out?\n   \n   reply\n   \n   0\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n2. #### Comment by mh44305342.\n   mh\n   \n   mh44305342\n   \n   July 17, 2022\n   \n   My sister, age 73, only got the first vaccine. She got a \"cold\" in January, 2022, and by late June, she \"felt funny\" but didn't get tested either time. Two days later she had a heart attack, was admitted and got 2 stents, and within another 36 hours had another heart attack. She was tested and found to have a recurrence of Covid. She was made DNR and died 4 days later. She is the youngest woman in our family including all 9 of our aunts, to have died in her 70's. Don't skip the vaccine. This is not a \"cold\" and prayer will not protect you.\n   \n   Read more\n   \n   reply\n   \n   3\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n3. #### Comment by KarenM500616.\n   Ka\n   \n   KarenM500616\n   \n   June 5, 2022\n   \n   I had Covid-19 twice in 3 weeks! Upon confirming the 1st infection my doctor prescribed Paxlovid for 5 days. I quarantined at home for 6 days then returned to work\n   \n   Only to experience \"Paxlovid Covid-19 Rebound requiring another 6 days of quarantine. I didn't experience the muscles aches the 2nd time and had upper respiratory symptoms and a sore throat. Neither time I experienced a fever. I had tested negative on day 10 and positive on day 12 sending me to a 2nd quarantine. Mind you I am fully vaccinated and had received the 2 separate boosters, last one was 1 month before contracting Covid-19. I m certain it kept me out of the hospital and alive.edited\n   \n   Read more\n   \n   reply\n   \n   3 replies\n   \n   3\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   1\n   \n   1 older reply\n   \n   show older replies\n   \n   - #### Reply by mk530.\n     mk\n     \n     mk530\n     \n     November 23, 2022\n     \n     Reply to KarenM500616\n     \n     I am sure all those shots is what makes you more susceptible to getting Covid. The shot kills your natural immunity. I’ve never been vaccinated and never had Covid. If I did have it and didn’t know it I survived. Yeah. Our bodies are amazing\n     \n     reply\n     \n     1 reply\n     \n     0\n     \n     share\n     \n     report\n   - #### Reply by pennyg958473.\n     pe\n     \n     pennyg958473\n     \n     January 4, 2024\n     \n     Reply to mk530\n     \n     Can you please share your studies with us?\n     \n     reply\n     \n     0\n     \n     share\n     \n     report\n4. #### Comment by JohnP453768.\n   Jo\n   \n   JohnP453768\n   \n   June 4, 2022\n   \n   I wonder why they don’t call it a flu? Since it is a respiratory virus. Masks do not keep out the virus and most people don’t even have good seal of the mask and many people are wearing fashion masks and even scarves. No one enforces what the mask actually is or of it properly fitted so how could that possibly help. When they tested N-95 masks they found the virus went through so they increased the amount virus that was acceptable and said they are approved. edited\n   \n   Read more\n   \n   reply\n   \n   1 reply\n   \n   4\n   \n   share\n   \n   report\n   \n   0\n   \n   0 older replies\n   \n   show older replies\n   \n   - #### Reply by gf8707.\n     gf\n     \n     gf8707\n     \n     June 25, 2022\n     \n     Reply to JohnP453768\n     \n     the flu is cause by an influenze virus and Covid 19 is caused by a corona virus. Masks are designed to stop nasal and oral droplets, not raw virus. I hope this clarifies this for. Different viruses and different diseases\n     \n     reply\n     \n     4\n     \n     share\n     \n     report\n5. #### Comment by KarenW91973.\n   Ka\n   \n   KarenW91973\n   \n   June 4, 2022\n   \n   \"Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a high-quality mask in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. \"\n   \n   The minute the rates go down, people act like it's party time. The governments have given up requiring masks, because of the freedum fighters. 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So far, emerging data suggest that individuals who are [vaccinated](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/drugs-supplements\/coronavirus-vaccine-research\/ \"covid vaccine info\") against SARS-CoV-2 and have had COVID-19 are better protected against reinfection than those with natural immunity or vaccination-derived immunity alone. Experts suspect that this so-called hybrid immunity generates a “broader spectrum of antibody response and a broader spectrum of immunity,” leading to a “more potent immune response,” says Alessandro Sette, a professor at La Jolla Institute for Immunology.\n\nThe CDC recommends that people who have had COVID-19 [still get vaccinated](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-ncov\/vaccines\/expect.html \"CDC vaccine info\") for this “added protection.” And with BA.5 driving up new cases of COVID-19, as well as hospitalizations from the illness, health officials are urging adults 50 and older to get their second booster shot, if they haven’t already.\n\nAnother reason to get vaccinated even if you’ve had COVID-19: Data indicate that the rates of [long COVID](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/long-covid-symptoms\/ \"long covid symptoms\") in vaccinated individuals who get a breakthrough infection “are roughly half of what they are in those who are unvaccinated,” says Peter Marks, M.D., director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. A new [CDC report](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/mmwr\/volumes\/71\/wr\/mm7121e1.htm?s_cid=mm7121e1_w \"long covid cdc\") reveals that long COVID can affect about 1 in 5 COVID-19 survivors ages 18 to 64; 1 in 4 adults 65 and older are affected by new or lingering symptoms after a SARS-CoV-2 infection.\n\n### **Updated vaccines could curb transmission **\nGiven the likelihood that COVID-19 is sticking around and the realization that infection-preventing immunity generated by the virus and the vaccines wanes, periodic revaccination ([like the annual flu shot](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/info-2021\/high-dose-flu-vaccines.html \"flu vaccines\")) may be necessary as we learn how to best live with the virus, Schaffner says. “And maybe we will have to create an updated COVID vaccine the way we create an updated influenza vaccine on an annual basis,” he adds.\n\nCOVID-19 vaccine makers are working on a new generation of their products, health officials have confirmed. The hope is that advancements in vaccine technologies — be it a nasal vaccine or a formula that targets more than one variant — could provide even greater protection against infection and reinfection.\n\nIn the meantime, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of coming down with COVID once, twice or multiple times. These are the same preventive measures that experts have been recommending all along: Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a [high-quality mask](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/one-way-masking\/ \"one way masking\") in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. “If there is a surge, the likelihood of being reinfected is much higher than if there is no virus circulating or a lesser amount of virus circulating,” Sette says.\n\nAlso, stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines, Adalja urges, and “have a plan for rapidly testing yourself and getting linked to treatments like monoclonal antibodies [or antivirals](https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/health\/conditions-treatments\/paxlovid-covid-treatment\/ \"paxlovid\") if you test positive.”\n\n*Editor's Note: This story, originally published June 1, 2022, has been updated to reflect new information.*","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Can You Get COVID More Than Once?
Meta Description	With omicron and other coronavirus variants, COVID-19 reinfections are becoming more common. Learn more about catching COVID more than once.
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Boilerpipe Text	That said, older adults, immunocompromised individuals and people with underlying conditions that can complicate a coronavirus infection “can still have serious disease” even if they’ve had COVID-19 before, Schaffner says, “because those people don’t respond optimally with their immune systems.” Research is underway to learn whether certain people are more at risk for reinfection. So far, emerging data suggest that individuals who are vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 and have had COVID-19 are better protected against reinfection than those with natural immunity or vaccination-derived immunity alone. Experts suspect that this so-called hybrid immunity generates a “broader spectrum of antibody response and a broader spectrum of immunity,” leading to a “more potent immune response,” says Alessandro Sette, a professor at La Jolla Institute for Immunology. The CDC recommends that people who have had COVID-19 still get vaccinated for this “added protection.” And with BA.5 driving up new cases of COVID-19, as well as hospitalizations from the illness, health officials are urging adults 50 and older to get their second booster shot, if they haven’t already. Another reason to get vaccinated even if you’ve had COVID-19: Data indicate that the rates of long COVID in vaccinated individuals who get a breakthrough infection “are roughly half of what they are in those who are unvaccinated,” says Peter Marks, M.D., director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. A new CDC report reveals that long COVID can affect about 1 in 5 COVID-19 survivors ages 18 to 64; 1 in 4 adults 65 and older are affected by new or lingering symptoms after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Updated vaccines could curb transmission Given the likelihood that COVID-19 is sticking around and the realization that infection-preventing immunity generated by the virus and the vaccines wanes, periodic revaccination ( like the annual flu shot ) may be necessary as we learn how to best live with the virus, Schaffner says. “And maybe we will have to create an updated COVID vaccine the way we create an updated influenza vaccine on an annual basis,” he adds. COVID-19 vaccine makers are working on a new generation of their products, health officials have confirmed. The hope is that advancements in vaccine technologies — be it a nasal vaccine or a formula that targets more than one variant — could provide even greater protection against infection and reinfection. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of coming down with COVID once, twice or multiple times. These are the same preventive measures that experts have been recommending all along: Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a high-quality mask in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. “If there is a surge, the likelihood of being reinfected is much higher than if there is no virus circulating or a lesser amount of virus circulating,” Sette says. Also, stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines, Adalja urges, and “have a plan for rapidly testing yourself and getting linked to treatments like monoclonal antibodies or antivirals if you test positive.” Editor's Note: This story, originally published June 1, 2022, has been updated to reflect new information.
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[Continue](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/) [Cancel](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/) [Health](https://www.aarp.org/health/) # How Many Times Can You Get COVID? ## Reinfections become more common as the pandemic presses on ![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![overhead view of someone holding a positive home covid test](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarpe/en/home/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/_jcr_content/root/container_main/container_body_main/container_image/articlecontentfragme/cfimage.coreimg.75.1440.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/health/conditions_treatments/2022/06/1140-positive-covid-test.jpg) d3sign / getty images - [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/) - [Twitter](http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/&related=CreateTheGood&text=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/&title=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?) By Rachel Nania, Updated July 15, 2022 AARP [En español](https://www.aarp.org/espanol/salud/enfermedades-y-tratamientos/info-2022/cuantas-veces-puedes-contagiarte-covid.html) Published June 01, 2022 / Updated July 15, 2022 The virus that causes [COVID-19](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/coronavirus-facts/ "covid faq") (known as SARS-CoV-2) has been circulating for more than two years, and experts say it’s not going away anytime soon. At this point, most of the U.S. population has already been infected, according to a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [study](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7117e3.htm "CDC covid reinfection"), and some people have had COVID-19 more than once. In fact, reinfections have become more common in recent months, and experts say that trend is expected to continue. Members only [aarp/aarp-foundation]() [Give now to Help Seniors Facing Poverty Over 39 million adults 50+ struggle to make ends meet. Your gift to AARP Foundation®, a charitable affiliate of AARP, helps build economic opportunity for vulnerable seniors.](https://foundation.aarp.org/site/Donation/2024-aarp-promos) Members only “Everybody is going to be infected with COVID-19 multiple times in their lifetime,” predicts Amesh Adalja, M.D., an infectious disease physician and senior scholar at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. Reasons run the gamut. Experts point to waning immunity from previous infections as well as from vaccines, which have been available to most adults for more than a year now. Studies show that the shots, and especially the boosters, still hold strong when it comes to fighting off [severe illness and death](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7112e1.htm "vaccine booster effectiveness"), but their ability to block transmission fades over time. Then there’s the emergence of highly contagious variants, most notably [omicron and its sibling strains](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/omicron-subvariant-facts/ "omicron subvariant"). The mutations that omicron amassed “allow it to get around some of the immunity that is engendered after people have been infected or been vaccinated,” Adalja says. “Those mutations are facilitating those reinfections.” Data from the United Kingdom shows that [reinfections surged](https://coronavirus.data.gov.uk/details/cases?areaType=nation&areaName=England "UK reinfections") in January after the arrival of the omicron variant, followed by a second wave in March and April. Reinfections tracked in New York state [follow a similar pattern](https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-reinfection-data "COVID reinfection data"). Members only [Family Caregiving]() [AARP Caregiving Online Community Connect with other caregivers, share advice and find support](https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/caregiving/aarp-caregiving-online-community/) Members only Fewer masks and less handwashing and social distancing have also contributed to the rise in repeat infections, [points out](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-you-get-covid-19-more-than-once/ "covid more than once") Frank Esper, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic. And we can’t ignore family history. Four other seasonal coronaviruses have been circulating the globe for decades, causing almost one-third of common colds. (Rhinoviruses are the most common culprit; adenoviruses are another common cause.) ![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![newsletter-naw-tablet](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/experience-fragments/uxdia-folder-structure/en/next-action-widgets/newsletter_naw/Newsletter_NAW/health/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/container_copy/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/QA_bucket/widgetimages/newsletter_NAW_tablet.jpg) AARP NEWSLETTERS ![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![Mujer leyendo tableta](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/experience-fragments/uxdia-folder-structure/en/next-action-widgets/newsletter_naw/Newsletter_NAW/health/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/container_copy/container/container/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.png/content/dam/aarp/QA_bucket/widgetimages/newsletter_NAW_desktop.png) Get the Your Health newsletter from AARP Sign up for the latest health news, fitness and nutrition updates and more\! [See All Newsletters](https://www.aarp.org/newsletters/) [Privacy Hub](https://www.aarp.org/privacy/ "privacy hub link") ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT - [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/) - [Twitter](http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/&related=CreateTheGood&text=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/&title=How%2520Many%2520Times%2520Can%2520You%2520Get%2520COVID?) “It’s clear from the study of those coronaviruses, those cousins to COVID, that the protection you get after an infection wanes after a period of time,” says William Schaffner, M.D., a professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. That’s why you can get repeated coronavirus-caused colds over the years. And it appears that the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is “similar in that regard,” Schaffner says. ### Reinfections tend to be milder in most How long you’re protected from catching COVID-19 after already having had it — and how secure that protection is — is not well established, Schaffner says. “And it probably varies, depending upon which variant infected you.” If you’re among the millions of Americans who have had COVID-19 caused by the [omicron variant](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/omicron-variant-infection-symptoms/ "omicron symptoms") this winter or spring, you may be susceptible to another infection sooner than you think. “People with prior infection, even with \[omicron subvariants\] BA.1 or BA.2, are likely still at risk for BA.4 or BA.5,” CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said in a July 12 press briefing. BA.5, another subvariant of omicron, is now the dominant variant circulating in the U.S., accounting for about 65 percent of COVID-19 cases; BA. 4, also part of the omicron family, is behind about 16 percent of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. The good news: For many, repeat infections tend to be milder. Having already been acquainted with the virus, Adalja explains, the immune system is better able “to jump into action pretty quickly” and help keep the virus from taking hold. [![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![limited-time flash sale yellow gradient background with light rays](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/experience-fragments/uxdia-folder-structure/en/next-action-widgets/membership-promo-naw/default/anonymous/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/container_copy/articleimage.coreimg.75.1140.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/members/2026/q1-membership-sale-2026/1140x655-fy26-q1-flashsale.jpg)](https://join.aarp.org/ORGARTJ?&defaultoffer=60&rd%252060) Flash Sale — AARP Membership Offer Join AARP for only \$11 per year with a 5-year membership. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of benefits, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine. [Join AARP](https://join.aarp.org/ORGARTJ?&defaultoffer=60&rd%252060) ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT That said, older adults, immunocompromised individuals and people with underlying conditions that can complicate a coronavirus infection “can still have serious disease” even if they’ve had COVID-19 before, Schaffner says, “because those people don’t respond optimally with their immune systems.” Research is underway to learn whether certain people are more at risk for reinfection. So far, emerging data suggest that individuals who are [vaccinated](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/coronavirus-vaccine-research/ "covid vaccine info") against SARS-CoV-2 and have had COVID-19 are better protected against reinfection than those with natural immunity or vaccination-derived immunity alone. Experts suspect that this so-called hybrid immunity generates a “broader spectrum of antibody response and a broader spectrum of immunity,” leading to a “more potent immune response,” says Alessandro Sette, a professor at La Jolla Institute for Immunology. The CDC recommends that people who have had COVID-19 [still get vaccinated](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect.html "CDC vaccine info") for this “added protection.” And with BA.5 driving up new cases of COVID-19, as well as hospitalizations from the illness, health officials are urging adults 50 and older to get their second booster shot, if they haven’t already. Another reason to get vaccinated even if you’ve had COVID-19: Data indicate that the rates of [long COVID](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/long-covid-symptoms/ "long covid symptoms") in vaccinated individuals who get a breakthrough infection “are roughly half of what they are in those who are unvaccinated,” says Peter Marks, M.D., director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. A new [CDC report](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7121e1.htm?s_cid=mm7121e1_w "long covid cdc") reveals that long COVID can affect about 1 in 5 COVID-19 survivors ages 18 to 64; 1 in 4 adults 65 and older are affected by new or lingering symptoms after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. ### Updated vaccines could curb transmission Given the likelihood that COVID-19 is sticking around and the realization that infection-preventing immunity generated by the virus and the vaccines wanes, periodic revaccination ([like the annual flu shot](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/high-dose-flu-vaccines.html "flu vaccines")) may be necessary as we learn how to best live with the virus, Schaffner says. “And maybe we will have to create an updated COVID vaccine the way we create an updated influenza vaccine on an annual basis,” he adds. COVID-19 vaccine makers are working on a new generation of their products, health officials have confirmed. The hope is that advancements in vaccine technologies — be it a nasal vaccine or a formula that targets more than one variant — could provide even greater protection against infection and reinfection. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of coming down with COVID once, twice or multiple times. These are the same preventive measures that experts have been recommending all along: Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a [high-quality mask](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/one-way-masking/ "one way masking") in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. “If there is a surge, the likelihood of being reinfected is much higher than if there is no virus circulating or a lesser amount of virus circulating,” Sette says. Also, stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines, Adalja urges, and “have a plan for rapidly testing yourself and getting linked to treatments like monoclonal antibodies [or antivirals](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/paxlovid-covid-treatment/ "paxlovid") if you test positive.” Editor's Note: This story, originally published June 1, 2022, has been updated to reflect new information. Rachel Nania is an award-winning health editor and writer at AARP.org, who covers a range of topics including diseases and treatments. MORE ON CORONAVIRUS [![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![man sneezing outdoors](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarpe/en/home/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/_jcr_content/root/container_main/container_body_main/container_body3/container_body_cf/container_additional_3/container_2123475527/featuredlist/tabItem/paxlovid-covid-rebound1.coreimg.50.932.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/health/conditions_treatments/2022/05/1140-man-sneezing.jpg)](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/paxlovid-covid-rebound/ "What to Know About COVID Rebound After Paxlovid") [What to Know About COVID Rebound After Paxlovid](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/paxlovid-covid-rebound/) [Some people see symptoms return after treatment ends](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/paxlovid-covid-rebound/) [![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![doctor uses an alcohol swab to prepare the injection site of the patient's arm](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarpe/en/home/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/_jcr_content/root/container_main/container_body_main/container_body3/container_body_cf/container_additional_3/container_2123475527/featuredlist/tabItem/second-booster-covid-immunity2.coreimg.50.932.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/health/conditions_treatments/2022/04/1140-doctor-prepping-vaccine.jpg)](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/second-booster-covid-immunity/ "Improve Your Immune Response to Second Booster") [Improve Your Immune Response to Second Booster](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/second-booster-covid-immunity/) [What to do before and after the extra COVID shot](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/second-booster-covid-immunity/) [![](https://cdn.aarp.net/etc/uxdia/images/uxdia-spinner.svg) ![n95 disposable particulate respirators](https://cdn.aarp.net/content/dam/aarpe/en/home/health/conditions-treatments/covid-reinfection/_jcr_content/root/container_main/container_body_main/container_body3/container_body_cf/container_additional_3/container_2123475527/featuredlist/tabItem/reusing-n95-masks3.coreimg.50.932.jpeg/content/dam/aarp/health/conditions_treatments/2022/01/1140-n95-respirators.jpg)](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/reusing-n95-masks/ "Can You Reuse an N95 Mask?") 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[Join AARP](https://join.aarp.org/ORGARTJ?&defaultoffer=60&rd%252060) ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT ## Conversation Follow this conversation to be notified when new comments are postedfollow Log in \\| Register ![Jump to log in or sign Up](https://cdn.viafoura.net/assets/defaultavatar.913f94a2fa72a280b0374131f1c9b175.png) All Comments12 NEWEST 0 ### All Comments 1. #### Comment by PamelaW160932. Pa PamelaW160932 November 5, 2022 I've noticed there are expiration dates on th e free covid tests that the goverment sent out last year and are now expired. Can we still use or toss out? reply 0 share report 0 0 older replies show older replies 2. #### Comment by mh44305342. mh mh44305342 July 17, 2022 My sister, age 73, only got the first vaccine. She got a "cold" in January, 2022, and by late June, she "felt funny" but didn't get tested either time. Two days later she had a heart attack, was admitted and got 2 stents, and within another 36 hours had another heart attack. She was tested and found to have a recurrence of Covid. She was made DNR and died 4 days later. She is the youngest woman in our family including all 9 of our aunts, to have died in her 70's. Don't skip the vaccine. This is not a "cold" and prayer will not protect you. Read more reply 3 share report 0 0 older replies show older replies 3. #### Comment by KarenM500616. Ka KarenM500616 June 5, 2022 I had Covid-19 twice in 3 weeks! Upon confirming the 1st infection my doctor prescribed Paxlovid for 5 days. I quarantined at home for 6 days then returned to work Only to experience "Paxlovid Covid-19 Rebound requiring another 6 days of quarantine. I didn't experience the muscles aches the 2nd time and had upper respiratory symptoms and a sore throat. Neither time I experienced a fever. I had tested negative on day 10 and positive on day 12 sending me to a 2nd quarantine. Mind you I am fully vaccinated and had received the 2 separate boosters, last one was 1 month before contracting Covid-19. I m certain it kept me out of the hospital and alive.edited Read more reply 3 replies 3 share report 1 1 older reply show older replies - #### Reply by mk530. mk mk530 November 23, 2022 Reply to KarenM500616 I am sure all those shots is what makes you more susceptible to getting Covid. The shot kills your natural immunity. I’ve never been vaccinated and never had Covid. If I did have it and didn’t know it I survived. Yeah. Our bodies are amazing reply 1 reply 0 share report - #### Reply by pennyg958473. pe pennyg958473 January 4, 2024 Reply to mk530 Can you please share your studies with us? reply 0 share report 4. #### Comment by JohnP453768. Jo JohnP453768 June 4, 2022 I wonder why they don’t call it a flu? Since it is a respiratory virus. Masks do not keep out the virus and most people don’t even have good seal of the mask and many people are wearing fashion masks and even scarves. No one enforces what the mask actually is or of it properly fitted so how could that possibly help. When they tested N-95 masks they found the virus went through so they increased the amount virus that was acceptable and said they are approved. edited Read more reply 1 reply 4 share report 0 0 older replies show older replies - #### Reply by gf8707. gf gf8707 June 25, 2022 Reply to JohnP453768 the flu is cause by an influenze virus and Covid 19 is caused by a corona virus. Masks are designed to stop nasal and oral droplets, not raw virus. I hope this clarifies this for. Different viruses and different diseases reply 4 share report 5. #### Comment by KarenW91973. Ka KarenW91973 June 4, 2022 "Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a high-quality mask in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. " The minute the rates go down, people act like it's party time. The governments have given up requiring masks, because of the freedum fighters. Smart people continue to wear masks in crowded, public places as well as keeping their distance, getting vaccines, etc. I'm amazed at how people continue to crowd behind one in a store line, it's like they have no awareness whatsoever that I might be carrying something they won't want to get. 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Readable Markdown	That said, older adults, immunocompromised individuals and people with underlying conditions that can complicate a coronavirus infection “can still have serious disease” even if they’ve had COVID-19 before, Schaffner says, “because those people don’t respond optimally with their immune systems.” Research is underway to learn whether certain people are more at risk for reinfection. So far, emerging data suggest that individuals who are [vaccinated](https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/coronavirus-vaccine-research/ "covid vaccine info") against SARS-CoV-2 and have had COVID-19 are better protected against reinfection than those with natural immunity or vaccination-derived immunity alone. Experts suspect that this so-called hybrid immunity generates a “broader spectrum of antibody response and a broader spectrum of immunity,” leading to a “more potent immune response,” says Alessandro Sette, a professor at La Jolla Institute for Immunology. The CDC recommends that people who have had COVID-19 [still get vaccinated](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect.html "CDC vaccine info") for this “added protection.” And with BA.5 driving up new cases of COVID-19, as well as hospitalizations from the illness, health officials are urging adults 50 and older to get their second booster shot, if they haven’t already. Another reason to get vaccinated even if you’ve had COVID-19: Data indicate that the rates of [long COVID](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/long-covid-symptoms/ "long covid symptoms") in vaccinated individuals who get a breakthrough infection “are roughly half of what they are in those who are unvaccinated,” says Peter Marks, M.D., director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. A new [CDC report](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7121e1.htm?s_cid=mm7121e1_w "long covid cdc") reveals that long COVID can affect about 1 in 5 COVID-19 survivors ages 18 to 64; 1 in 4 adults 65 and older are affected by new or lingering symptoms after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. ### Updated vaccines could curb transmission Given the likelihood that COVID-19 is sticking around and the realization that infection-preventing immunity generated by the virus and the vaccines wanes, periodic revaccination ([like the annual flu shot](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/high-dose-flu-vaccines.html "flu vaccines")) may be necessary as we learn how to best live with the virus, Schaffner says. “And maybe we will have to create an updated COVID vaccine the way we create an updated influenza vaccine on an annual basis,” he adds. COVID-19 vaccine makers are working on a new generation of their products, health officials have confirmed. The hope is that advancements in vaccine technologies — be it a nasal vaccine or a formula that targets more than one variant — could provide even greater protection against infection and reinfection. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of coming down with COVID once, twice or multiple times. These are the same preventive measures that experts have been recommending all along: Stick to well-ventilated spaces, wear a [high-quality mask](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/one-way-masking/ "one way masking") in crowded indoor settings, keep a safe distance from others, and pay attention to the level of transmission in your community. “If there is a surge, the likelihood of being reinfected is much higher than if there is no virus circulating or a lesser amount of virus circulating,” Sette says. Also, stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines, Adalja urges, and “have a plan for rapidly testing yourself and getting linked to treatments like monoclonal antibodies [or antivirals](https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/paxlovid-covid-treatment/ "paxlovid") if you test positive.” Editor's Note: This story, originally published June 1, 2022, has been updated to reflect new information.
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