A new study by researchers at the Cleveland Clinic published a pre-print (not peer-reviewed) paper in medRxiv that shows that individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection do not get additional benefits from vaccination.
Researchers also include vaccines can be safely prioritized to those who have not been infected before.
Check out the paper here: Necessity of COVID-19 vaccination in previously infected individuals
The Cleveland Clinic did put out a statement days after the research was published:
“Cleveland Clinic recommends those who are eligible receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
“We recently shared research that provides insight into how the immune system protects the body after a confirmed COVID-19 infection. The study followed Cleveland Clinic caregivers over five months as the vaccination process was beginning. The data showed that the vaccine was extremely effective in preventing COVID-19 infection. In addition, we found that none of the previously infected employees who remained unvaccinated were re-infected over the duration of the study. This information could help guide vaccination efforts should there be a shortage of vaccine supply and in countries where vaccine supply is limited.
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“This is still a new virus, and more research is needed. It is important to keep in mind that this study was conducted in a population that was younger and healthier than the general population. In addition, we do not know how long the immune system will protect itself against re-infection after COVID-19. It is safe to receive the COVID-19 vaccine even if you have previously tested positive, and we recommend all those who are eligible receive it.”