Areas with Low Vaccination Rates May Face Higher Risk of Delta Variant Surge

The Delta strain of the virus is currently spreading globally, and experts suggest it is only a matter of time before it hits the United States with full force. The upside is that even though the Delta variant is highly transmissible and leads to more severe symptoms, it can still be effectively controlled by the available COVID-19 vaccines. However, the downside is that certain states in the US have not been as successful in their vaccination efforts, potentially putting them at a greater risk from the Delta variant.

While states like California, Connecticut, and Vermont on the coasts have achieved high vaccination rates among their populations, central and southern states such as Alabama, Wyoming, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee have been slower in their vaccination campaigns, with less than 35% of eligible residents vaccinated. These states are already observing an increase in the percentage of positive COVID-19 tests indicating the presence of the Delta variant.

“We have definitely made progress and are past the worst phase. The huge surges we witnessed during the holidays are unlikely to repeat,” stated CNN Medical Analyst Dr. Leana Wen.

“However, we must focus on analyzing local data rather than just looking at the national statistics. While the overall situation in the US has improved significantly, there are specific areas experiencing significant spikes where hospitals are once again reaching full capacity,” Wen remarked.

Previously, one COVID patient would infect 2 healthy individuals

Now, one COVID patient with the DELTA VARIANT can spread the virus to 8 healthy individuals

It’s crucial to get vaccinated before encountering the variant pic.twitter.com/kUt3rEVPFq

— Faheem Younus, MD (@FaheemYounus) June 20, 2021

“We now need to concentrate on distributing the vaccine through community channels where individuals can receive it via trusted sources like doctors’ offices, schools, and workplaces,” suggested former FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb in an interview with CBS. “We have to consider alternative strategies for vaccine distribution to reach those who are hesitant or face challenges in accessing the vaccination sites.”