COVID-19 immunity: Infection compared with vaccination

The UK Coronavirus Immunology Consortium (UK-CIC) has partnered with the British Society for Immunology (BSI) to create an infographic which explains the difference in immunity against COVID-19 gained through natural infection with SARS-CoV-2 compared to vaccination. Scroll down this page to discover more, click the download link to print the graphic or share on social media tagging @UKCICstudy and @britsocimm to help strengthen public understanding.

We are committed to providing evidence-based information about COVID-19 and vaccination and continue to review and update our infographics as new research is published. We work closely with immunologists who are experts on the topic to make sure our infographics are accurate and reliable based on current available evidence. Research looking into different aspects of immunity against COVID-19 after infection and vaccination is ongoing, especially as new variants emerge. Knowledge of COVID-19 and vaccine immunology will continue to evolve and we will continue to monitor developments and review the information provided in this graphic. This infographic is accurate at time of publishing in February 2022.

Vaccination induces an immune response in a safe way and significantly reduces your chances of developing COVID-19. Even if you've had COVID-19, vaccination will safely boost whatever immunity you have from previous infection.

An infographic comparing immunity to COVID-19 from infection and vaccination. The concluding line reads that vaccines for COVID-19 are safe and effective at preventing severe disease and death. Even if you've had COVID-19, vaccination will safely boost whatever immunity you have from previous infection.

 

Download this infographic (PNG for use on social media)


Common questions about COVID-19 vaccines are answered in the BSI's free, easy-to-read guide.

A guide to vaccinations for COVID-19

Find out more about UK-CIC research, as well as how Patient and Public Involvement is central to the success of the project.

UK-CIC website for the public