Why Experts are So Concerned About the Rise of the Delta Variant

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The delta variant was first identified in India. DIBYANGSHU SARKAR/AFP via Getty Images
  • The delta variant is spreading globally.
  • Experts think that this version is more infectious than earlier variants of the virus.
  • While some vaccinated people have developed COVID-19 from the delta variant, they appear to have less severe symptoms than unvaccinated people.

The delta variant of the novel coronavirus is quickly spreading globally, leading to lockdowns in some countries that previously had few reported COVID-19 cases. This variant first identified in India is said to be even more contagious than the British variant (now known as alpha).

“At this point, the delta variant comprises roughly 25 percent of new infections [in the United States],” said Dr. David Hirschwerk, an attending infectious diseases specialist at Northwell Health in Manhasset, N.Y. “In some regions of the country, the percentage is higher, and over the coming weeks, it will very likely be the dominant strain in the U.S.”

So what exactly is the delta variant of COVID-19 and what do we need to know about it right now? We reached out to experts to help shed some light on the subject.

Source: healthline