CDC study: COVID-19 antibodies decline over time

In a study of 156 front-line hospital workers who tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, 94% had lower antibody levels 60 days later, including 28% whose antibodies fell below the threshold for a positive test result, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported today. Participants with higher initial antibody responses were more likely to have antibodies detected at the follow-up test than were those who had a lower initial antibody response.

“Although the precise timeline remains undetermined, the study estimates COVID-19 antibodies, which generally develop within two to three weeks of infection, are likely to decline within 60 days,” CDC said. “… Until more is known about immunity following infection, wear a mask to protect others and yourself, stay six feet from others, wash your hands often, and avoid gatherings — even if you have already had COVID-19.”