What is Delta Variant?
Viruses with RNA in their genetics, such as the new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 disease, enter a person's cells and transfer their genetic material. Cells exposed to the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) copy the virus, which continues to multiply until the cell is destroyed. The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which emerged in China in 2019, is frequently mutated. Some mutations do not cause significant changes, while others may cause more incredible changes and risks. It has been observed that the Delta variant, formed due to the mutation of SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, has a higher contagiousness and lethality rate than other variants. It is thought that changes in the protein structure of the Delta variant facilitate its entry and attachment to cells.
Although the mutation of viruses can cause anxiety and panic in society, the mutation is natural and familiar. In addition, it has been proven by some studies that vaccines developed for Covid-19 protect against the Delta variant. Regarding transmission with the delta variant, It was stated that two doses of the Pfizer - BioNTech vaccine prevented hospitalizations by 96%, and two doses of the Oxford - Astra Zeneca vaccine prevented 92%.
Since the rise of the delta variant in India, an increase in mortality has been observed. It is not yet known precisely how the Delta variant, which is much more contagious and dangerous compared to other variants of Covid-19, will affect the pandemic process. Although it has been stated that some vaccines have a specific effect on some variants, the importance of the mask, distance, and hygiene rules is frequently emphasized. In the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, people vaccinated for two doses do not become complacent and continue to wear masks, maintain physical distance, and pay attention to hygiene rules, just like before the vaccine.
In addition, since it is not yet known precisely what effect the COVID-19 disease will have on the human body in the future, getting the necessary dose of vaccination in order not to be caught and paying attention to the rules is the most effective method known to be protected from the long-term risks of Covid-19. With the emerging mutations of the new coronavirus, medical authorities have stated that the end of the Covid-19 pandemic is not very close. Still, it is possible to provide significant protection when necessary precautions are taken.
Symptoms of Delta Variant
The symptoms of the delta variant are very similar to those of other variants that cause COVID-19, and the most important ones are listed below:
- Fever
- Severe cough
- Respiratory failure
- Loss of smell
- Pain in joints and muscles
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
People with one or more symptoms must go to a health institution and have a PCR test as soon as possible, paying attention to the mask and distance rules. Individuals should isolate themselves until test results are available.
How Can You Be Protected against Delta Variant?
The first thing to be done to be protected from the Delta variant is to take two doses of vaccines such as BioNTech, which is known to be protective against the Delta variant, and to continue to wear a mask so that the mouth and nose are fully closed, and to follow the rules of distance and hygiene. The fact that people with two doses of vaccine continue to protect themselves and the people around them dramatically impacts the course of the pandemic. Here are some things to consider to protect yourself from Covid-19:
- Wearing masks that cover the mouth and nose in public places
- Comply with the established distance rules.
- Washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds after contact with any surface
- Frequent cleaning of areas such as door and window handles, tables, key holders, faucets, and toilets
- Never touch places such as the mouth, face, and eyes without disinfecting hands.
