Authorities: "COVID-19, Virus May Remain Even After Antibodies Develop Post-Recovery" (Update)

Structure of COVID-19 spike protein (A), SARS neutralizing antibody (B), and MERS neutralizing antibody (C) revealed by the CEVI (Emerging Virus) Convergence Research Group at the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] It has been found that patients who recover from the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are likely to develop neutralizing antibodies against the virus. However, even when such antibodies are present, it is common for viral genetic tests to still return positive results.

According to the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters for COVID-19 on the 22nd, an analysis of 25 recovered patients showed that all had developed neutralizing antibodies. Neutralizing antibodies are soluble proteins produced after exposure to the virus that bind to the virus, preventing human cells from becoming infected and neutralizing the virus particles. While more than 200 cases of re-positive patients?those who test positive again after being released from isolation?have been reported domestically, it remains unclear to what extent antibodies are produced and how long the protective effect lasts.

Among the 25 subjects, about half (12 individuals) tested positive for COVID-19 viral genetic material in respiratory specimens despite having neutralizing antibodies. However, the virus was not isolated or cultured; authorities concluded that only fragments of the virus were detected. This indicates that antibodies produced after infection provide some level of protection. Typically, antibodies form after viral infection and the virus then disappears, but this appears to be one of the unusual characteristics of COVID-19.

At a briefing on the same day, Director Jeong Eun-kyung stated, "It is presumed that the duration for which the virus remains in the body without being completely eliminated may vary depending on the patient, even if neutralizing antibodies are formed," and added, "Additional research is currently underway."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.