Viruses have the ability to morph and mutate. That is exactly how the Delta variant, as well as the other variants of COVID-19, have come into being. Mount Carmel Urgent Care wants you to understand more about the Delta virus so that you can stay as healthy as possible. Our East Broad and Grove City urgent care locations are available for COVID-19 testing, wellness checkups, and sharing information to help you better understand the current contagion. Education is an important part of prevention. That’s why we are here to discuss some of the most important questions about the current virus and its spread. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions regarding the COVID-19 Delta variant.
What Is the Delta Variant and What Are Its Symptoms?
The Delta variant is the most recent and, presently, the most prominent strain of the original COVID-19 Alpha virus. It is fast-spreading and carries strong similarities to the first strain. Fever, body aches, respiratory issues, and cold or flu-like symptoms are common with the Delta variant. Unlike the original, there are fewer cases of individuals losing their senses of taste and smell. While there are currently not enough studies to determine whether the Delta variant is deadlier than the Alpha strain, hospitals are seeing high numbers of serious and even life-threatening cases in unvaccinated individuals. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, contact Mount Carmel Urgent Care in Grove City today to schedule an appointment.
How Quickly Does It Spread?
We are seeing a rapid uphill spike in positive cases. This is due to the extremely contagious nature of the COVID-19 Delta variant. Compared to the original strain, the transmission rate of the Delta variant has almost doubled. Like the Alpha variant, this variant spreads through airborne transmission. This means that infected particles from saliva droplets can be suspended in the air and easily inhaled by those nearby. The virus can also live in the air for as long as 16 hours.
Is the Vaccine Effective for This Variant?
It is possible for those who have been vaccinated for the COVID-19 Alpha strain to contract the Delta variant. Infections in vaccinated patients are termed “breakthrough cases.” While vaccinated individuals may still be at risk for Delta, this should not deter you from getting the vaccine. Those who have been vaccinated have enhanced protection against Delta. If they do contract the variant, their symptoms are shown to be drastically less severe compared to those who have not received the vaccine.
Who Is at the Greatest Risk?
The Delta variant has been named a variant of concern by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This means that it is widespread, highly contagious, and carries severe symptoms. In addition to the Delta variant, the Delta Plus variant has been identified in the United States and several other countries. The Delta Plus variant, though not yet a variant of concern, is especially damaging to the lungs. While the first strain presented greater risks for the elderly, the Delta virus shows greater issues for young people and adults under 50 years of age. Those who are overweight, have preexisting respiratory conditions, have compromised immune systems, or are unvaccinated are still at risk.
Visit Mount Carmel Urgent Care in Grove City!
At Mount Carmel Urgent Care, we are dedicated to providing fast, convenient, and satisfying service to our patients. Especially during these times of widespread illness, we want to make sure that you and your families stay safe and well. If you need a COVID test, checkup, or non-emergency health services, our doors are open. Check-in online for our Grove City location, or schedule a virtual visit. You can also call us at 614-871-7130 with any other questions. Our staff is ready to help you get well sooner!