Repeat COVID-19 infections increase organ failure, death risk

Recurring infections with the SARS-CoV-2 virus may heighten the probability of organ failure and mortality, as indicated by a study recommending increased vigilance to minimize the risk of reinfection. The research, disclosed in the journal Nature Medicine on Thursday, reveals that recurrent COVID-19 infections substantially amplify the risk of adverse health consequences across various organ systems. These consequences encompass hospitalization, complications affecting the lungs, heart, brain, blood, musculoskeletal system, and gastrointestinal system, with the potential for fatal outcomes.

Furthermore, reinfection is linked to the development of diabetes, kidney disease, and mental health issues, according to the researchers. Senior study author Ziyad Al-Aly from Washington University School of Medicine emphasized the misconception of a “superimmunity” among individuals who had COVID-19 or received vaccinations and boosters. The study unequivocally demonstrated that each subsequent infection contributes to additional health risks during the acute phase (first 30 days after infection) and the prolonged phase (long COVID).

The research highlights an escalating risk with each successive infection, emphasizing the importance of avoiding further infections even after experiencing two or three. With the emergence of new variants causing an uptick in infections globally, limiting exposure to the virus becomes crucial. Al-Aly underscores preventive measures such as masking, receiving eligible boosters, staying home when sick, and getting a flu shot to mitigate the risk of a simultaneous outbreak of both COVID-19 and influenza.

The study, based on the analysis of 5.8 million de-identified medical records from the US Department of Veterans Affairs, encompassed a diverse demographic. The researchers constructed a controlled dataset, including 5.3 million individuals without a COVID-19 diagnosis and compared them to over 443,000 individuals with one infection and nearly 41,000 with two or more documented infections. Statistical modeling revealed that individuals experiencing reinfections were twice as likely to die and three times more likely to be hospitalized than those without reinfection. Repeat infections were associated with higher risks of lung problems, heart conditions, and brain issues compared to individuals infected once.

Al-Aly stressed the broad public health implications of the findings, urging the implementation of strategies to prevent or minimize the risk of reinfection.