Read more about COVID-19
Why Is It A Variant?
The DELTA VARIANT is a new strain that has emerged due to mutation in the virus genetic structure.Things You Need To Know About The DELTA Strain
- The delta variant is a more contagious variant of COVID-19 and spreads rapidly after its emergence. As of July 22, 2021, 80% of patients who tested positive for COVID-19 had delta variants.
- Delta variant of COVID-19 is able to get into the cells i.e lungs easily meaning that it is easier to catch the disease and it could affect even those who had previously been infected.
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- There are 1000times more viruses of the delta strain in the nasal and respiratory passages in a person who has a delta variant compared to the original strain.
- The delta variant may look and act very similar to the original strain of COVID-19. However, there are some differences: Fever and cough are present in both types, but headaches, sinus congestion, sore throats, and running nose are more common with the delta variant. Loss of taste and smell, considered a hallmark symptom of the original virus, may happen less frequently.
- Delta variant is affecting unvaccinated people more, Health experts urge that COVID-19 vaccines work to prevent severe diseases which may be fatal.
- Breakthrough cases for vaccinated people are rare but do happen: when a vaccinated person tests positive for COVID-19, most either have no symptoms or have very mild symptoms and it rarely results in hospitalisation or death.
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