Health experts: Get tested for COVID-19 right before holiday gatherings

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Health leaders are recommending postponing this year’s holiday celebrations until it’s safer to gather in groups.

But they know, inevitably, some families will ignore that advice and still get together.

So before you pack up for Grandma’s house this holiday season, there are a few things you should know.

READ: Florida reports more than 5,800 new COVID-19 cases, 52 virus-related deaths

First, if you’ve already had COVID-19, you are still at risk of getting it again, even if a test shows up that you have antibodies.

“There’s a possibility that you may produce some antibodies but not enough, or like not strong enough antibodies to protect you from a reinfection. This is sort of known over other diseases,” said Orange County epidemiologist Alvina Chu.

Chu said it’s also impossible to know how long your immunity will last.

“It’s a very wide range and of course varies from person to person,” she said.

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Chu said on average, COVID-19 antibodies tend to last for about three months. But in some cases, the fighting response fails after just a few weeks.

So for those who feel they must get together, Chu suggests getting tested right before the gathering.

COVID Testing LLC is offering rapid antigen tests with a 15-minute turnaround, or the more accurate PCR tests with same-day results on the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.

READ: CDC revises mask guidance, says masks offer two-way protection

Health leaders are asking that if you can’t get tested to spread out, wear a mask and keep the group size small.

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