A mini review of reinfection with the SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant

Abstract

Abstract Background COVID‐19 has caused severe morbidity and mortality worldwide. After the end of the dynamic zero‐COVID policy in China in December, 2022, concerns regarding reinfection were raised while little was known due to the lack of surveillance data in this country. Aims This study reviews the probability, risk factors, and severity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 Omicron variant reinfection, as well as the interval between infections, risk of onward transmission by reinfected cases, and the role of booster vaccination against reinfection. Sources References for this review were identified through searches of PubMed and Web of Science up to September 24, 2023. Results The rate of reinfection ranges from 3.1% to 13.0%. Factors associated with a higher risk of reinfection include being female, having comorbidities, and being unvaccinated. Reinfection with the BA.4 or BA.5 variant occurs approximately 180 days after the initial infection. Reinfections are less clinically severe than primary infections, and there is evidence of lower transmissibility. The debate surrounding the effectiveness and feasibility of booster vaccinations in preventing reinfection continues. Conclusions The reinfection rate during the Omicron epidemic is significantly higher than in previous epidemic periods. However, the symptoms and infectivity of reinfection were weaker than those of the prior infection. Medical staff and individuals at high risk of reinfection should be vigilant. The efficacy of booster vaccinations in reducing reinfection is currently under debate.

Keywords

• COVID‐19
• infectiousness
• interval
• Omicron variant
• reinfection
• SARS‐CoV‐2