Protection from prior infection significantly reduced against Omicron

Prior coronavirus infections appear to be much less protective against symptomatic Omicron reinfections than reinfection with other variants, according to a new study by Qatari researchers that has not yet been peer-reviewed.

Why it matters: If you're counting on your previous coronavirus infection to keep you from getting it again, don't.

The big picture: Initial studies have found that coronavirus vaccines — particularly without a booster shot — are much less effective against Omicron infections than other variants, although they appear to hold up well against severe disease.

This study suggests the same is true for people with prior infections, emphasizing the benefit of vaccines for this population.