3 ms·
A lower initial load doesn't guarantee a low severity because the timing of the immune response is such a big factor (due to the large reproduction exponent).
by maxerickson 5y ago
A lower initial load doesn't guarantee a low severity because the timing of the immune response is such a big factor (due to the large reproduction exponent).
As such, it’s likely even a 30% reduction (which is on the lower end of the range) in the viral load inhaled by someone could drastically reduce the chance of symptomatic COVID. is vague enough to not be an over statement, but it probably isn't easy to find much in the way of actual support for it either.
- chimprich 5y agoA lower initial load leading to less severe disease makes intuitive sense (less opportunity for the infection to outpace the immune response) and whilst not proved, a lot of virology experts think it's plausible. There is at least some evidence for it, e.g. a military base study that found less severe disease cases once masks started being worn.