The first time this year, we have some hope—or, at the very least, vigilant optimism—that the pandemic will fade into the background. But, unfortunately, experts warn that there is still a risk that new mutations of the virus will revive it and make it even more powerful.
Delta, a highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 virus strain, is the virus of interest at present. This virulent strain was first found in India. Experts believe that the delta variant spreads more quickly due to mutations that improve its ability to attach to cells in our bodies. In addition, each variant’s mutations have made it easier to move from one person to another.
This strain not only spreads faster than previous strains, but it may also cause more severe disease. This spread is especially concerning for unvaccinated people and those with a weak immune response to the virus. It seems to be vaccine-resistant and to have lethal effects. People do not know the severity of this variant. Even though vaccinations are being administered effectively, we must still adhere to SOPs.
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The Symptoms of Delta Variant
Fevers are quite common. The virus level in the body rises to levels not seen before during the pandemic. And more people are becoming gravely ill within three or four days. One study found that the most commonly reported symptoms were headache, sore throat, and runny nose.
For younger people, this may be a bad cold. However, they may still spread the virus to others who are more vulnerable to severe illness, such as those who have not yet been fully vaccinated. Asymptomatic people can also spread the virus to others.
Other symptoms include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Congestion
- Body aches
Contagious Nature Of Delta Variant
According to the research at CDC, the Delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, can spread more quickly. It is because the strain has mutations in the spike proteins that infect human cells more efficiently. That means that if they contract the virus, they may become more contagious and spread it to others.
Researchers believe the Delta variant is about 50% more contagious than the Alpha variant, first identified in the United Kingdom. Alpha, also known as B.1.1.7, was already half as infectious as the original coronavirus discovered in China in 2019. The average person infected with Delta spreads it to three or four other people, compared to one or two other people infected with the original coronavirus strain. The Delta variant may defeat vaccines and some COVID-19 treatments, although research is ongoing.
How To Stay Safe
There are the following ways to keep safe:
Wear Your Mask
Wear your mask at all costs, and don’t forget about it. Encourage others to do the same. Water droplets spread the virus from coughing and sneezing. Wear either the surgical or KN95 mask to avoid contracting this new strain.
Use Sanitizers
Sanitizers should be your new best friends. Always have a pocket-sized one on hand. Wash your dirty hands for 20 seconds with soap and water. If no soap is available, use sanitizer or rubbing alcohol.
Keep A Safe Distance
Maintain a safe distance of 6 feet. Avoid hugging and kissing. Do not go to crowded areas especially shopping malls and parks, unless necessary.
Get Vaccinated
If you have not yet been vaccinated, this is your sign to do it. Be a responsible citizen and keep yourself and others safe. The common vaccines available in Pakistan are Sino pharm, Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca.
Current Situation Of The Delta Variant
Hundreds of thousands died, and many more are critically ill in India due to the widespread Delta variant. The disease spread in areas with poor hospital infrastructure, citizens with limited access to healthcare facilities passed away. This nightmare scenario played out in India just weeks after their government politicians boasted that they had defeated Covid-19.
We can see a similar attitude in Pakistan, both among government officials and members of the general public. Because Covid-19 cases and deaths remain relatively low compared to other countries, there is a widespread belief that the virus will not have the same devastating effects. Unfortunately, this incorrect belief lacks scientific support and needs more research.
Conculusion:
Pakistan is fortunate not to have experienced a total disaster, but a variant such as Delta can take us there. Concerning variants were responsible for 55% of deaths in India. The current wave of infections can overwhelm the existing healthcare infrastructure if authorities do not enforce SOPs, increase vaccinations, and implement mass testing. Now you easily understand the delta variant lookout for the possible signs and symptoms. We must understand the severity and deadly nature of this strain. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe. In case, If you feel any symptoms, get tested immediately via Chughtai Lab Tests.
