While no vaccine exists yet for the novel coronavirus, recoveries outnumber fatalities. A leading Chinese expert, however, urges those who have recovered to remain cautious, as reinfection remains a real risk.
The latest Chinese figures show 14,562 confirmed cases and 305 deaths. A first fatality outside China was reported in the Philippines. Though much focus is on new infections and deaths, recoveries are also rising—Johns Hopkins University researchers report 340 patients now recovered.
That said, these individuals must stay vigilant. According to Hong Kong's South China Morning Post, reinfection risk is genuine, with no vaccine available for the 2019-nCoV coronavirus despite ongoing research.
The South China Morning Post quoted Zhan Qingyuan, head of infectious diseases at Beijing's China-Japan Friendship Hospital:
"Antibodies [developed by people who have been infected with the virus] apparently don't last very long [in the blood], patients in remission therefore still run the risk of contracting the disease. They must therefore continue to take protective measures."
In short, recovery does not confer immunity. Dr. Zhan stressed avoiding crowds, particularly popular park dance sessions in China—an aerobic activity where masks could hinder breathing.
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