The Delta Variant, Explained.

Nomenclature.

In May, the World Health Organization designated a naming convention for variants based on Greek letters. The first variant (originating in the U.K.), is now known as Alpha. The Beta variant originated in South Africa. The Gamma variant originated in Brazil. The Delta variant originated in India, and is also known as “B.1.617.2” (I did not choose this name ;).

Background.

The Delta variant was first detected in India, thereafter in the United Kingdom, and has now spread to over 80 countries. It is currently the dominant strain in both India and the U.K., and is swiftly spreading worldwide. In the United States, it currently accounts for 25-30% of our COVID-19 cases.

Transmission.

Delta has been identified by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as a “variant of concern”. Why? Because Delta is the most robust variant to date. Translation? It is more transmissible, and more pathogenic.

What can we Expect?

Within one to two months, the CDC expects Delta to be the dominant strain in the United States. Currently, the Alpha variant is dominant. Yet, in several states, Delta is already gaining solid traction. Such states include: Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, Montana, North and South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.

Variations and Mutations.

Variants emerge as a virus faces an evolutionary pressure to survive. The virus mutates to bind more successfully to human cells. The Delta variant appears to have gone through multiple mutations. Subsequently, Delta is particularly efficient at binding to human receptors, making it the most transmissible (William Petri). Interestingly, the initial symptoms are LESS severe than previous strains (e.g., patients are more likely to report mild, cold-like symptoms).

Vaccination Trends.

There has been a recent decrease in vaccination rates in the United States. Further, vaccine hesitancy has increased (particularly in the aforementioned states, and in younger populations). It is simultaneously young people and those living in such states who are experiencing the highest Delta infection rates. Thus, low vaccination rates increases population susceptibility to the virus. Interestingly, those previously infected by COVID also appear to be more susceptible to Delta.

Herein lies the irony. A mere six months ago, the majority of Americans (along with Australians, and Europeans) were panicking over a LACK of vaccine supply. Now, we have an abundance of vaccine supply. Yet, the same people are suddenly choosing not to get vaccinated. Privilege.

Will the Vaccine Protect those of us, who ARE Vaccinated?

Luckily, both Pfizer and Moderna demonstrate 84-86% protection against the Delta variant. Yet, we are only at a 46% full vaccination rate in the United States.

Further, obtaining ONE dose of a vaccine only provides 30-35% protection from getting COVID. Thus, individuals who only obtained their first dose will be at higher risk. Unvaccinated individuals will be at the highest risk.

Conclusion.

Please get vaccinated. COVID is a deadly virus for many. Be socially responsible, morally accountable, and take care of both yourself (and those around you). If everyone does their part, we WILL overcome this!

(Authorship: Sophie Aiyer)