Can you get COVID-19 twice?

Yes, it is possible to get COVID-19 again, even if you have long COVID, as immunity from past infections or vaccines fades and new variants can emerge.

What are the common symptoms of current COVID-19 variants?

Common symptoms include a 'razor-blade' sore throat, hoarse voice, congestion, fatigue, and typical signs like fever and cough, though loss of taste or smell is less common.

Who is eligible for COVID-19 vaccines in the UK in early 2026?

Eligibility for the Winter 2025/26 program ending January 31, 2026, includes those aged 75 and over, care home residents, and immunosuppressed individuals. A Spring 2026 booster will also be available for these groups.

Home / Health / Double Covid Threat: Catch Virus While Sick!

Double Covid Threat: Catch Virus While Sick!

24 Jan

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Summary

It's possible to get infected with two COVID strains simultaneously.
Existing immunity from infection or vaccines wanes over months.
New variants can bypass the immune system, even with long COVID.

Double Covid Threat: Catch Virus While Sick!

COVID-19 continues to evolve, with new variants like NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus) circulating in the UK. A recent increase of 11% in lab-confirmed cases has been noted. Experts warn that contracting COVID-19 while already ill, or even simultaneously with two different strains, is a possibility due to waning immunity from past infections or vaccines.

Long COVID does not confer immunity, and evolving variants can bypass the body's defenses. Symptoms for current strains often mimic severe cold or flu, with a distinctive 'razor-blade' sore throat, hoarse voice, congestion, and fatigue being common. Loss of taste or smell is now less frequent.

The UK's vaccination strategy is now targeted, focusing on high-risk individuals. The Winter 2025/26 program, ending January 31, 2026, is available for those 75 and over, care home residents, and the immunosuppressed. A Spring 2026 booster program is scheduled to begin in April 2026 for similar eligible groups.