Delta Variant Must Reads

There are still many unknowns about the new Delta coronavirus variant. Here are five articles that help make sense of the recent developments and public health guidance. 

The new Delta variant is highly contagious. Early in the infection, it is estimated to replicate in amounts that are perhaps 1,000 times as much as those seen in people infected with other variants. Public health professionals are especially concerned about the impact of the variant on those who are unvaccinated. (THE NEW YORK TIMES)   

The Delta variant and breakthrough infections have already prompted the CDC to change guidance on indoor mask-wearing for the vaccinated. These developments are also reinforcing the need for more widespread vaccinations. Whereas previously, epidemiologists hoped that getting 70 or 80 percent of the population vaccinated would control the pandemic, the Delta variant means that those estimates might now be revised upwards closer to the 90-percent range. (THE BOSTON GLOBE)  

Following a spike in COVID-19 infections in Israel, one of the most vaccinated countries in the world, many Israelis are now getting their third COVID-19 vaccine shot. Those over 40, as well as teachers, caregivers for the elderly, and pregnant women are eligible for the booster shot. According to a recent Israeli study, the booster shot was effective in preventing COVID-19 infection among people 60 and older. (HAARETZ)  

From what to do when your child wakes up with sniffles to practical advice on what kind of mask they should wear, NPR has compiled the answers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention just in time for the new school year. (NPR’S SHOTS)  

Even as U.S. public health official remain preoccupied with Delta, a different variant — the Lambda variant — is another source of concern. The Lambda variant, which is currently rapidly spreading throughout South America, is already present in most U.S. states. (FORBES)