It has been over a year since COVID-19 swept through the United States, leading to many going into lockdowns for months. Many masks, Zoom calls and COVID tests later, the end of the pandemic appears to be just as out of reach as ever. 

The Delta-variant was first discovered in India in December 2020. This variant has existed for many months now, and has been found in at least 100 countries, the United Kingdom being hit the hardest. The World Health organization is regarding this variant as “the fastest and fittest” variant. It is now a growing concern in the United States, bringing back anxieties that were previously thought to be a thing of the past.

Primary symptoms of the Delta-variant are still similar to symptoms of the previous strain, such as fever, cough and more. Recent studies in the U.K. have shown that patients who have contracted the Delta-variant may suffer from more severe symptoms such as hearing impairment, severe gastrointestinal issues and blood clots, which can all lead to tissue death and gangrene. 

The Delta-variant does pose a more severe risk to those that are unvaccinated than those that are vaccinated. The variant can still infect either individual, though typically vaccinated individuals have a lower probability of contracting the virus and less severe symptoms. Though those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine may still get infected, the symptoms may be similar to a cold or flu. The virus can also be spread by those who are vaccinated, however, the time duration of the strain being contagious is shorter. The unvaccinated have a higher chance of becoming infected and often have a higher chance of needing hospitalization.

Studies have also shown that the Delta-variant is more contagious; it can be spread about twice as fast. To combat this, vaccines are still the best protection against any strain of COVID-19. The Delta-variant, as well as the possibility of future mutations, will continue to surge if vaccination rates do not increase. The CDC is also highly encouraging everyone to begin to wear masks again. It would be another measure to help slow down the spread, especially for those in areas that are highly populated. Cases are now on the rise again in 42 states, and deaths are increasing in 43 states. Though certainly dangerous, the variant may not be as deadly as initially presumed. There is a possibility that there are other factors contributing to its severity; Such as hospitals not being adequately prepared to handle the increased stress on their resources, as well as the virus hitting communities who are more susceptible to spreading it.     

The pandemic is not over just yet, but there are many resources to help combat it. There is no need to panic, but continue to stay healthy and safe.