Is immunity after COVID-19 better than from a vaccine?

Health care workers answer questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Ilan Shapiro, MD explains that even people who have had COVID-19 still need to get vaccinated to be protected from future infection.
We know that there are certain viruses that will actually create a lot of antibodies and we will be protected for long term. Like, chickenpox is a great example of that. If you get it, you’re very safe, but it hasn’t been the case with COVID-19. We have seen multiple kids and adults get sick over and over again. That means that if we’re only thinking about natural immunity as our only shield, we are unprotected. That’s why I clearly recommend getting the vaccine to make sure that us and our kids are protected.

This information is shared for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at time of filming. Always consult a health care provider for any personal health decisions. Click here for vaccine FAQs from the CDC.

Stay up to date with your COVID vaccine, including boosters!

COVID vaccines are safe and effective for everyone ages 6 months and older.

Immunity wanes over time. Keep up your protection against COVID by getting boosted when eligible.

Updated (bivalent) boosters are now available for adults and children 6 months and older. 

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THE CONVERSATION: Between Us, About Us.

Doctors, nurses, researchers and community health care workers provide facts and dispel misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccines in this FAQ video series from KFF with the Black Coalition Against COVID and UnidosUS.

A series for parents and caregivers created in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics provides the latest on the COVID-19 vaccine for kids.

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