You can get COVID-19 multiple times; there is no set limit on how often reinfections can occur. The virus that causes COVID-19 mutates frequently, producing new variants that can evade immunity from previous infections or vaccinations, increasing the risk of reinfection
. Immunity from a prior infection or vaccination tends to wane over time, typically within a few months, which also contributes to the possibility of getting infected again
. Reinfections have become more common with the spread of highly infectious variants like Omicron and its subvariants
. Research shows reinfections can happen as soon as a couple of months after the first infection, though exact timing varies and is still being studied
. Most reinfections tend to be milder, especially if you have strong immunity from vaccination or previous infections, but people with weakened immune systems or underlying conditions may experience more severe illness again
. To reduce the risk of reinfection, staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, practicing good hygiene, wearing masks in crowded or indoor settings, and maintaining physical distancing are recommended
. In summary:
- You can get COVID-19 repeatedly with no fixed limit.
- Reinfections occur due to virus mutations and waning immunity.
- Reinfections can happen within months of a prior infection.
- Vaccination reduces severity and risk but does not eliminate reinfection.
- Preventive measures remain important to lower risk.
