Reactions to SARS-CoV-2: The Effectiveness of the Body’s Immunological Memory

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a worldwide pandemic which resulted in significant morbidity and mortality. After being exposed to SARS-CoV-2 infection, some patients (especially elderly patients) begin to develop severe COVID-19. Infected individuals begin to produce hyper-inflammatory responses in the body. These responses build immunological memory, which helps to determine one's protection against reinfection, disease risk, and vaccine efficacy. This research paper aims to answer the question of whether immunological memory against COVID-19 is retained in individuals after contraction of the virus. Through a compilation of multiple research studies, a clear correlation was made between coronavirus pathogens and antibody/memory cell responses. The original hypothesis, which focused on the efficacy of immune memory against COVID-19, was partially supported by the results. While it was found that immunological memory after the virus is present, there are limitations to the testing group. This research’s purpose is to help readers understand the body's immune response system and its role in controlling COVID-19 infection. With this information, other researchers can further study and develop treatments for future deadly infections/diseases similar to COVID-19.