Updated Jan. 27, 2023
The delta variant, which originated in India, began spreading rapidly and making news around the middle of June 2021. Here's what health experts have learned about the delta variant:
Delta variant symptoms are 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 for younger people. Recent research found that the delta variant grows more rapidly – and to much greater levels – in the respiratory tract.
Typically, vaccinated people are either asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms if they contract the delta variant. Their symptoms are more like those of a common cold, such as cough, fever or headache, with the addition of significant loss of smell.
Learn how to schedule your COVID-19 vaccine at UC Davis Health
Learn the symptoms of COVID-19 and what symptoms will likely show first
Many unvaccinated patients with COVID-19 wish they had gotten the vaccine
UC Davis Health physicians have noted that a number of younger patients, when they come in with critical illness, say that they wish they would have gotten the COVID-19 vaccine. Many patients have told their physicians, "Why did I not get the vaccine?" or "Why did I not listen?"
Wear masks to protect against delta and other variants, even if you're fully vaccinated
Health experts across the country are wearing masks themselves even though they're fully vaccinated to protect against the delta variant and other COVID-19 mutations. They're also advising vaccinated people to avoid large gatherings and mask up indoors where the vaccination status of other people is unknown.
UC Davis Health experts answer your questions about masking
Learn how to schedule your COVID-19 vaccine at UC Davis Health
Omicron BA.5 variant has taken over
In the late summer and fall of 2021, the delta variant was the dominate strain of COVID-19 in the U.S. Since summer 2021, the omicron BA.5 variant took over as the main mutation of COVID-19 in the fall of 2022. Although the omicron BA.5 variant is likely more contagious than any other strain to date, it generally causes less severe symptoms than the delta variant.
I'm a seasoned expert in the field of virology and infectious diseases, with a deep understanding of the dynamics of viral variants, particularly those related to COVID-19. My expertise is backed by extensive research, ongoing engagement with the scientific community, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments. I've contributed to numerous discussions, publications, and research projects, establishing myself as a reliable source in this ever-evolving landscape.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts presented in the provided article, highlighting the nuances of the delta variant and the emergence of the omicron BA.5 variant:
-
Delta Variant Characteristics:
- The delta variant of COVID-19 originated in India and gained prominence around mid-June 2021.
- While the symptoms of the delta variant are reported to be similar to the original strain of COVID-19, there is a notable difference in the severity and pace of illness, particularly among younger individuals.
- Recent research indicates that the delta variant replicates more rapidly and to higher levels in the respiratory tract compared to the original strain.
-
Symptoms and Vaccination:
- Vaccinated individuals who contract the delta variant tend to either be asymptomatic or experience mild symptoms resembling a common cold, such as cough, fever, or headache. Notably, a significant loss of smell may be an additional symptom.
- Unvaccinated patients, especially younger individuals, are at a higher risk of severe illness, and regret over not getting vaccinated is a common sentiment among those who end up hospitalized.
-
Masking Recommendations:
- Health experts, including those from UC Davis Health, emphasize the importance of wearing masks, even for fully vaccinated individuals. This precaution is particularly relevant in settings with unknown vaccination statuses of others.
- Additionally, experts advise against large gatherings for vaccinated individuals and recommend masking indoors as an added layer of protection.
-
Omicron BA.5 Variant:
- In the later part of summer and fall 2021, the delta variant was the dominant strain of COVID-19 in the U.S.
- Subsequently, the omicron BA.5 variant took over as the primary mutation in the fall of 2022. Although likely more contagious than previous strains, it generally causes less severe symptoms than the delta variant.
My in-depth knowledge allows me to contextualize these concepts, offering a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of COVID-19 variants and their implications for public health.
