Updated on 9/1/2021
As you’ve probably heard, we’re seeing a spike in COVID-19 cases across the country. This spike is being driven by a variant of the COVID-19 virus called the Delta variant. It’s a highly contagious version of the original virus and is making many people – primarily those who’ve not already received one of the COVID-19 vaccines – very sick. Here’s a quick Q&A about the variant and what you can do to keep yourself and your family safe.
What’s a variant?
A variant is a mutation that occurs in a virus. That mutation changes how the virus infects us. The COVID-19 virus has gone through several mutations already, the latest of which is called the Delta variant.
How is the COVID-19 Delta variant different from the original virus?
The biggest difference between the original virus and the Delta variant is transmissibility. That means the virus is getting more contagious. Experts estimate that it is two or three times more transmissible than the original virus. In fact, it’s now on par with the common cold in terms of transmissibility.
Who is getting sick with the COVID-19 Delta variant?
For the week ending August 21, the CDC estimated that 99% of COVID-19 cases are now attributable to the Delta variant. The vast majority of those getting sick with the virus are people who aren’t vaccinated.
What’s the best protection against the Delta variant?
The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19, including the Delta variant, is to get vaccinated. The CDC is also calling for everyone – even those who’ve received the vaccines – to wear masks indoors to slow the spread of the virus.
If people who are vaccinated are getting the Delta variant, why should I get the get the COVID-19 vaccine?
While you can still be infected after you’re vaccinated, the vaccines are incredibly effective at preventing death, hospitalization, and serious complications. That’s why they’re so important. Plus, vaccination doesn’t just protect people, it can prevent new variants from developing.
Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?
We are confident the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective with the FDA’s emergency use authorizations and now permanent approval of the Pfizer vaccine. The vaccines passed numerous, required safety checks and study of reported side effects or adverse events. Several months of data have shown us the vaccines are safe and effective.
How can I learn more and schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment?
If you’d like more information on COVID-19 or to schedule your vaccination appointment, visit mountcarmelhealth.com.
Now that we know more about the Delta variant, it’s incredibly important that we continue taking the precautions we’ve had in place since the start of the pandemic. If you haven’t already, get the COVID-19 vaccine. If you’re gathering indoors or in large groups, wear a mask. And continue to practice good hand hygiene. They’re the best ways we know to protect yourself and your family against the virus, as well as the most efficient way to keep new variants from developing and the only way we’ll put this pandemic behind us for good.