PEOPLE are so unlikely to get Covid a second time that they could be given an “immunity certificate” if they get the bug or are vaccinated, SAGE has suggested.
The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said it was “likely to be possible” that people wouldn’t to socially distance if they were immune to the coronavirus.
In a report presented to an infectious diseases expert group last month, scientists said that they had “high confidence” in immunity for those who had Covid or been vaccinated.
They said it was rare of people to catch Covid-19 a second time.
SAGE suggested a “short-term” solution, as they are concerned that immunity may disappear after six months.
Cabinet Minister Michael Gove denied that Brits will need “immunity certificates” to go to the pub.
Those who get vaccinated currently need to follow the same Tier system rules as everyone else.
RESEARCHERS’ RECOMMENDATIONS
In the paper, the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) said: “As SARS-CoV-2 continues to circulate, we approach a time when a significant number of people who have been infected in early pandemic waves may have some ‘immunity’ that protects them during subsequent exposure.
“In addition, results from clinical trials of novel vaccines… suggest that a high degree of immunity to Covid-19 disease can be obtained, at least in the short-term.
“This new context leads us to re-examine the concept that those who have recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection or have been given an effective vaccine might be given, for a period, an exemption from current non-pharmaceutical interventions designed to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2.
“Some form of Covid-19 immunity certification is likely to be possible but further data and considerations are needed before a recommendation can be made.”
In November, a study suggested that people who recover from Covid may be immune from reinfection for several years, a study suggests.
Experts say the “exciting” findings give hope that a vaccine will also give long-lasting protection.
American researchers analysed the blood of 185 men and women aged 19 to 81 who had beaten the virus.
They found they still had Covid antibodies and the immune cells that make them six to eight months later.
The scientists say the slow rate of decline suggests the antibodies and cells may persist for a long time.
It means the body is likely to be able to react quickly to reinfections, ensuring they are only mild or asymptomatic.
