It's the difference between the effective reproductive rate and the basic reproductive rate. Yes, more cases means a higher basic reproductive rate, which is an

It's the difference between the effective reproductive rate and the basic reproductive rate. Yes, more cases means a higher basic reproductive rate, which is an innate characteristic of the virus. But more immunity in the world means a lower effective reproductive rate, which is the same rate we're trying to manipulate with physical distancing and masks, etc. "And additionally, there are reports of reinfections among covid19 patients who were found to be cured." Like I said in my comment, it is still unclear how immunity works.