Where did the delta variant come from?

Introduction

Covid-19 also known as Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a RNA virus, and all RNA viruses will mutate over time. The alterations in the variants arise when the virus’s genes are mutated. These mutations, however, are quite natural. Geographic separation tends to cause genetically distant variations. Given these trends, the new mutations are likely to be many and distinct from one another, resulting in new coronavirus variants.

Where did the delta variant come from?

The Delta variant has alarmed the world because it is highly transmissible, hence falls under the variation of concern. This occured in several countries even before we got to know that where the Delta variation has been found, it took off so quickly and spread between people more efficiently than the Alpha variant. In accordance with the report of Covid-19 infections, the first discovery of the Delta variant was around December 2020 to January 2021 in India. Before further studies can be done, this strain has already spread rapidly, becoming one of the dominant strains of the virus causing multiple outbreaks in many countries.

As of today, the Delta variation has been documented in over 96 countries, and we anticipate that it will spread further. A variety of causes are contributing to greater transmission over the world:

  • The nature of these variants of concern, including the Delta variant.
  • We have enhanced social mixing and social mobility, which has increased the number of interactions that people have.
  • The relaxation, incorporation or improper application of public health and social measures.
  • Vaccine distribution inequalities.

The world remains generally susceptible to infection, including Delta and any variation of concern. Proven public health and social practises that we know prevent infections, limit the spread of a virus-infected person to others, and save lives.

How to protect ourselves from the scary Delta variant?

Identifying the risk allows us to take precautions and reduce it on a daily basis. There are numerous things you may take on your own to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from this virus, especially the Delta strain. This involves having clean hands and wearing a mask, ensuring that the mask covers your nose and mouth, and having clean hands when putting on and taking off your mask. Avoiding crowded areas, keeping your distance from others, and ensuring that if you are indoors, you are in a well-ventilated room. Taking all of these precautions will lower your chances of being exposed to the virus and being infected.

In addition, receive the covid 19 vaccine (vaksin coronavirus) when your turn comes. We know that immunizations are extremely successful at preventing serious illness and death. Therefore, when your vaccine slot gets booked, make sure you attend it and get both the doses. In an introductory analysis, 2 doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine emerged to be about 88{c56d045b753d7ac87014be41e2e1a0ab2ab25785786c6a7e016449978698e5b6} effective against the disease and 96{c56d045b753d7ac87014be41e2e1a0ab2ab25785786c6a7e016449978698e5b6} effective against hospitalization with the Delta variant, according to Public Health England. While the AstraZeneca vaccine was about 60{c56d045b753d7ac87014be41e2e1a0ab2ab25785786c6a7e016449978698e5b6} effective against the disease and 93{c56d045b753d7ac87014be41e2e1a0ab2ab25785786c6a7e016449978698e5b6} effective against hospitalization with the Delta variant.

At the same time, vaccine makers and companies are testing booster shots trying to figure out if they can provide better protection against the Delta variant and other variants that emerge in coming months. Pfizer has announced about seeking for FDA authorization for a booster dose in August.

Conclusion

We understand that mutations of the coronavirus, emerging of the variants, are terrifying the community. If we maintain our awareness, take good care of the precautions, follow rules and get vaccinations, we can be sure to overcome this Covid-19 pandemic.