A newer strain of COVID-19 is causing concern in the Killeen area. As cases rise in Texas and across the country, you need to be aware of the risks of the Delta variant. This version appears to be more contagious than the original Alpha strain. And it is leading to increased infections and hospitalizations among the unvaccinated. This, in turn, has contributed to recent spikes in COVID-19 cases. Explore facts about the Delta variant with Freedom Urgent Care in Killeen. And learn what you can do to keep yourself and your community safer.
The Delta Variant Is Highly Contagious
Viruses are constantly changing through mutation, which creates new variants of existing viruses. Sometimes these variants emerge and disappear because the mutations create a less contagious disease. Other times, these variants may become even more virulent. Unfortunately, with the COVID-19 Delta variant, it appears that the virus is spreading more efficiently than the Alpha strain. And these new cases are overloading many state hospital systems. According to the CDC, “Some variants seem to spread more easily and quickly than others, which may lead to more cases of COVID-19. An increase in the number of cases will put more strain on healthcare resources, lead to more hospitalizations, and potentially more deaths.”
Delta Variant Symptoms Appear the Same
The symptoms of the Delta variant appear to be the same as the original version of COVID-19. However, physicians are seeing people getting sicker quicker, especially younger people. In addition, recent research found that the Delta variant grows more rapidly—and to more significant levels—in the respiratory tract. Typically, vaccinated people are either asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms if they contract the Delta variant. The symptoms are more like a common cold, such as cough, fever, body aches, or headache. Other symptoms have also shown up as nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms can also include loss of smell or taste, but these are less common with the Delta variant than the Alpha strain.
The Variant Is Affecting Unvaccinated People More
In the U.S. alone, there is a considerable number of unvaccinated people in Southern states, including Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, where vaccination rates are low. As a result, COVID-19 hospitalizations are surging across the U.S., and hospitals are stretched thin due to most cases coming from unvaccinated people. The Associated Press has reported that “Nearly all COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. now are in people who weren’t vaccinated.”
Schedule Your COVID-19 Vaccination at Freedom Urgent Care in Killeen, Texas
At Freedom Urgent Care in Killeen, Texas, our team is dedicated to providing patients with fast and convenient service. Especially during these times of widespread illness, we want to make sure that you and your family stay safe. If you need a COVID test, checkup, or any other aid, schedule your virtual visit or check-in online. You can also call us at 254-781-5446 with any additional questions. Stay safe and get the help you need with Freedom Urgent Care!