As our communities prepare to brace for another wave of COVID-19 cases, questions and concerns regarding the Delta Variant are on the rise.
CHRISTUS Health wants you to know that our #1 priority is to keep you and your family safe, healthy, and informed. How do we plan on doing that? Let’s start with the facts. Here’s a brief snapshot on everything you need to know regarding the Delta Variant:
- The Delta Variant is highly contagious, in fact, it is nearly twice as contagious as previous variants. Data also suggests that it may cause more severe illness, especially in unvaccinated people.
- Doctors have started to report that Delta Variant symptoms are differing from COVID-19 symptoms. For example, the symptoms of fever and coughing can be found in both strains, however, headaches and sinus congestion are more closely related to the Delta Variant. The urge to continuously sneeze has also been a differing symptom doctors have discovered. In addition, the loss of taste and smell may happen periodically.
- The vaccine is still our best asset in the fight against COVID-19 and the Delta Variant. The vaccine is authorized in the United States and is highly effective at preventing severe illness and death.
- However, the vaccine is not 100% effective and some fully vaccinated people will experience illness which we call a breakthrough infection. For such people, the vaccine still provides strong protection against serious illness and death. If you haven’t made your appointment to be vaccinated yet, you can schedule yours here.
- Studies show that wearing a mask and social distancing still works. The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are recommending that everyone, no matter your vaccination status, wear a mask and keep a safe distance from other individuals.
Are you looking to learn more about the Delta Variant but don’t have a primary care physician? No worries. We’ve got you covered.
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