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COVID-19 Delta Variant: What Community Members Need to Know

Submitted by Dawn Stevens, Emergency Management

COVID-19 cases are rising in some tribal communities due to the new strain of the virus called the Delta variant. This fact sheet summarizes what you need to know to stay safe from Delta:

•The Delta variant spreads much more easily and quickly than previous strains of the virus.
•Unvaccinated people are at high risk of getting sick from Delta.
•People who have been fully vaccinated are well protected against severe disease from Delta.
•Delta is just one strain of COVID-19. The virus will continue to change and make new strains as it spreads from person to person.
•Vaccines are highly effective against all known strains of the virus. Get vaccinated today to protect yourself, your family, and your community against new strains of COVID-19.

How contagious is the Delta variant?

The Delta variant is much more contagious and spreads much faster than earlier strains of the virus. The Delta variant has spread rapidly in the US. In June, Delta was responsible for just 10% of all cases of COVID-19 in the US. That number jumped to 50% in July. Increasing rates of infection show that Delta is highly contagious.

How effective are vaccines against the Delta variant?

All 3 available vaccines are highly effective against the Delta variant. Recent studies have shown all 3 vaccines provide significant protection against illness, hospitalization, and death from Delta. Vaccination is the best way to protect you and your family from Delta.

Am I at risk of getting sick from the Delta variant?

People who have not been vaccinated are at very high risk of getting sick from Delta. Fully vaccinated people are at very low risk of getting sick from Delta. Masks help prevent the spread of variants. People who are not fully vaccinated should wear a mask in indoor public places and crowded outdoor settings.

What is the Delta Plus variant and should I be concerned?

The Delta Plus variant is a new strain of COVID-19 that was first discovered in April. It is unknown whether it is more contagious than the previous Delta variant. The best way to protect yourself against all strains is to get vaccinated.

Source: Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health & CDC, July 12, 2021