Why are we worried about the Delta variant?

Health care workers answer questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Yvonne Maldonado, MD talks about what we know about the COVID vaccines and the Delta variant.

So, the current concern is a Delta variant. The Delta variant is about 60% more transmissible than the previously concerning variant, the alpha variant. And it’s thought to be twice as transmissible as the original strain that we saw in, early in the pandemic. And so, if you think that the vaccine is a higher risk to you than getting COVID, then you’re banking on the fact that A, you’re not going to get infected. B, you’re going to get infected and be asymptomatic.

And keep in mind that if you become infected and recover, there is a group of people up to 20 to 50% of people who have developed COVID who have long-term sequelae. We call that PASC. Some people call it long haulers, but it stands for, PASC stands for post-acute sequelae of COVID-19. And we know that we have no answer right now for how to deal with that.

This information is shared for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at time of filming. Always consult a health care provider for any personal health decisions. Click here for vaccine FAQs from the CDC.

Stay up to date with your COVID vaccine, including boosters!

COVID vaccines are safe and effective for everyone ages 6 months and older.

Immunity wanes over time. Keep up your protection against COVID by getting boosted when eligible.

Updated (bivalent) boosters are now available for adults and children 6 months and older. 

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THE CONVERSATION: Between Us, About Us.

Doctors, nurses, researchers and community health care workers provide facts and dispel misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccines in this FAQ video series from KFF with the Black Coalition Against COVID and UnidosUS.

A series for parents and caregivers created in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics provides the latest on the COVID-19 vaccine for kids.

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