Washington: The World Health Organisation has rewritten guidance that suggested those who recovered from the virus would have no immunity, to instead say that survivors can expect some level of protection.

World Health Organisation Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Credit:Bloomberg

The clarification follows concern from scientists about the brief originally issued by the UN agency.

It had cautioned against the issuing of so-called "immunity passports", which some countries are considering using as a route out of total lockdown by allowing those who have recovered to resume a normal life.

"There is no evidence yet that people who have had COVID-19 will not get a second infection," WHO said in its original scientific brief.