Herd Immunity and the Vaccine

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Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of a community ― the herd ― becomes immune to a disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. This makes the spread from person to person unlikely. As a result, the whole community becomes protected — not just those who are immune.

Two paths to herd immunity — vaccines and infection.

Vaccines create immunity without causing illness or resulting complications. Herd immunity makes it possible to protect the population from a disease, including those who can’t be vaccinated, such as those with compromised immune systems.

Herd immunity can also be reached when a sufficient number of people in the population have recovered from a disease and have developed antibodies against future infection.

Experts estimate that 70% of the U.S. population — more than 200 million people — would have to recover from COVID-19 to create herd immunity and halt the epidemic. This amount of infection could lead to serious and potentially long-term complications and millions of deaths.

Since the risk of developing dangerous symptoms from COVID-19 may be greater in people who are older (over 65) or in people of any age who have other serious underlying health problems, such as heart or lung conditions, weakened immune systems, severe obesity, or diabetes. And if many people become seriously ill with COVID-19 simultaneously, the nation’s health care system could quickly become overwhelmed.

Until there is widespread COVID-19 vaccinations, it’s crucial to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus and protect individuals at increased risk of severe illness, including older adults and people of any age with underlying health conditions. To reduce the risk of infection:

  • Avoid large events and mass gatherings.
  • Avoid close contact (within about 6 feet, or 2 meters) with anyone who is sick or has symptoms.
  • Stay home as much as possible and keep distance between yourself and others (within about 6 feet, or 2 meters) if COVID-19 is spreading in your community, especially if you have a higher risk of serious illness. Keep in mind some people may have the COVID-19 virus and spread it to others, even if they don’t have symptoms or don’t know they have COVID-19.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Wear a cloth face covering in public spaces where it’s difficult to avoid close contact with others, especially if you’re in an area with ongoing community spread. for health care providers.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw away the used tissue.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, bedding and other household items if you’re sick.
  • Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, electronics and counters, daily.
  • Stay home from work, school and public areas if you’re sick, unless you’re going to get medical care. Avoid public transportation, taxis and ride-sharing if you’re sick.

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, everyone needs to continue to use masks, exercise proper hand hygiene, limit travel, avoid congregating, and maintain appropriate social distancing. 

References:

  1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/herd-immunity-and-coronavirus/art-20486808
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