OU Med Doctor Breaks Down COVID-19 Antibodies & Death Rates

In total the state said 453 Oklahomans, on July 8, are hospitalized because of COVID-19.

As a spike in cases continues, more people are recovering from the virus. However, experts at OU Medicine said the virus is affecting the younger population differently.

Experts continue to learn new things about COVID-19 every day.

"I think we're just getting out and about more and people were enjoying the increased lack of restrictions and increased mobility," said Douglas Drevets, the OU Medicine Chief of Infectious Diseases.

Deaths rates remain low compared to April, when 17 deaths were reported in just one day alone.

Nursing homes were the biggest concern then. Now, a younger age group.

"I think the health care providers are getting better and are having more knowledge about how to treat folks and I think we're just doing a better job at getting folks through the illness," said Drevets.

While those who recover develop antibodies, experts believe it's possible those may wear off over time making you vulnerable all over again.

"It seems to be clear that after a few months, the amount of antibodies in your system tends to go down and it’s just not clear how long the protection lasts after you've had the infection," said Drevets.

Wearing a mask, washing your hands and social distancing is still the best way to prevent the spread and may be for some time until a vaccine.

"I think we have a to plan that we are in this for the long haul and if it ends up being a short haul, then we can all be thankful," said Drevets.

Heath experts at OU said once you've been exposed, it'll take two to three days to test positive if you've contracted the virus.