How to Protect Yourself From the COVID Delta Variant

Delta Variant Symptoms Are Similar

The Delta strain does have similar symptoms to the original COVID strain but there are some important differences. حتى الآن, loss of taste and smell are not known as common signs of the Delta variant. The common symptoms associated with Delta are:

• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Headaches

While fever and headaches are also symptoms consistent with the original strain, it is important to note they may accompany the Delta variant without the more frequently talked about symptoms such as loss of taste and smell. The variants do not cause the same symptoms in everyone, which also remains true with the original virus. Because this variant is more contagious than those we’ve seen in the past, it’s important to isolate yourself from others and get tested as soon as you notice any of these symptoms. Don’t assume it’s allergies or a cold.

It Spreads Much More Easily

Epidemiologists measure how easily a disease can spread from one person to another. People infected with early forms of the coronavirus on average passed the infection on to between two and five other people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports the Delta variant is more than twice as infectious as earlier strains. This means that each person who contracts COVID-19 is now infecting between five to nine others, which is why COVID-19 cases are increasing so rapidly.

Protect Yourself From the Delta Variant

1. Get Vaccinated
Vaccination is safe and effective. It reduces your chance of infection against all variants, including Delta, and offers strong protection from severe illness and death. If you aren’t yet vaccinated, your best line of defense is to get the shot as soon as you can.

2. Avoid Large Gatherings
The more people you are in contact with, the more likely you are to be exposed. لذا, try to avoid large gatherings, especially where there may be risks.

3. Wear a Mask Around Others

Everyone who is able, including fully vaccinated people, should wear masks in public indoor places in areas of substantial or high transmission. clean your hands often, either with soap and water for 20 seconds or a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% كحول.