Immunity Debt

Immunity Debt

Subject : Science & tech

Context : Amid the gradual easing of lockdowns, some countries are reporting a higher number of respiratory infections, including unseasonal diseases such as influenza and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Concept :

Immunity debt:

• Experts have attributed this spike in respiratory infections to what is being called the “immunity debt” brought on by non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) put in place to reduce the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
• The NPIs included measures such as social distancing, use of masks, and hand hygiene.
• The constant exposure to infectious agents boosts the immune response in the human body.
• In the absence of this, there is a possibility that there could be unseasonal outbreaks with greater severity than usual. This is a major concern for infant population in particular.
• Disruptions to the seasonal transmission patterns of these diseases may have consequences for the timing and severity of future outbreaks.