New research led by the University of Queensland reveals that being overweight can hinder the body’s antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, but not to the protection provided by vaccination. The study, published in Clinical & Translational Immunology, builds on previous research on how COVID-19 impacts individuals who are overweight.
The research team collected blood samples from individuals who had recovered from COVID-19 and had not experienced reinfection during the study period, which spanned around three months and 13 months post-infection. The findings showed that an elevated body mass index (BMI) at three months post-infection was associated with reduced antibody levels. Furthermore, at 13 months post-infection, an elevated BMI was linked to both reduced antibody activity and a lower percentage of the relevant B cells, which are crucial for developing antibodies against COVID-19.
However, the study also found that an elevated BMI had no impact on the antibody response to COVID-19 vaccination approximately six months after the second vaccine dose was administered. This suggests that vaccination can still provide adequate protection against the virus for individuals who are overweight.
Associate Professor Kirsty Short, one of the researchers involved in the study, emphasized the importance of these findings for shaping health policies. She highlighted that overweight individuals may face an increased risk of severe disease and impaired immune response to reinfection. Therefore, it is crucial for this group to ensure they receive vaccinations to minimize their risk.
Dr. Short suggests that personalized recommendations are needed for overweight individuals to manage COVID-19 and future pandemics effectively. These personalized approaches will be particularly significant in low-income countries, where there is a high percentage of overweight individuals who rely on infection-induced immunity.
Overall, the research underscores the importance of addressing the impact of weight when considering COVID-19 management strategies. By understanding the specific challenges faced by overweight individuals, health authorities can develop targeted interventions and policies that protect this vulnerable population. Additionally, efforts to improve vaccination rates in low-income countries will be critical to safeguarding overweight individuals who rely on infection-induced immunity in the absence of easy access to vaccines.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
