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Risk Factors Contributing to Reinfection by SARS-CoV-2: A Systematic Review
Walter Gómez-Gonzales1, Luis A Chihuantito-Abal2, Carlos Gamarra-Bustillos3
1Escuela de Medicina, Filial Ica, Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista, Ica 11001, Peru.
Advances in Respiratory Medicine
|December 22, 2023
Summary
Individuals not fully immunized against COVID-19, females, those over 60, and immunocompromised individuals face higher reinfection risks. Understanding these risk factors is crucial for public health strategies.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- COVID-19 reinfection presents a significant public health challenge.
- Systematic review to consolidate evidence on risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 reinfection.
Approach:
- Systematic review of scientific literature up to August 2022.
- Searched PubMed and Scopus databases for relevant studies.
- Included 30 analytical observational case-control and cohort studies.
Key Points:
- Incomplete immunization and exposure to new variants increase reinfection probability.
- Specific demographics like females and individuals over 60 are at higher risk.
- Pre-existing chronic diseases, severe prior symptoms, and immunocompromised status are significant risk factors.
Conclusions:
- Identified key demographic and clinical factors associated with increased COVID-19 reinfection risk.
- Highlights the need for continued research, particularly analytical observational studies.
- Informs targeted public health interventions and vaccination strategies.
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