Part 3/8:
Recent studies have shown varying prevalence rates of COVID-19 antibodies across different populations. For example, a survey of grocery shoppers in New York indicated that about 15% had antibodies, while another in Los Angeles County found rates between 2.8% and 5.6%. These figures suggest that the virus may have infected many more people than official case counts reflect.
Understanding the true level of infection in the community is pivotal for shaping policies related to reopening economies and lifting restrictions. It can indicate whether the population is approaching herd immunity, where enough individuals have immunity to slow or halt the virus’s spread.