Reinfection Cases

Reinfection cases occur when a person who has previously been infected with a virus or bacteria becomes infected again after recovering. This can happen because the immune system may not provide long-lasting protection, or the pathogen may mutate, making it different enough that the body doesn’t recognize it. In the context of illnesses like COVID-19 or the flu, reinfections can help public health officials understand how viruses evolve and spread. Monitoring these cases is crucial for developing vaccines and strategies to manage outbreaks effectively.