Variants of the COVID-19 virus are present in 182 countries worldwide. Right now, the Delta variant is on the rise. Louisiana has seen a fast-growing spike in cases, as has the rest of the United States. This is why it is especially important to be aware of the spread and stay on top of your best practices! LCMC Health Urgent Care is dedicated to educating, serving, and promoting a safer, healthier community in Gretna. Learn more about the Delta variant and discover which steps you can take to better protect yourself and those around you.
1. Similar Symptoms
As with the first wave of COVID-19, common symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, and fever. Some may experience chest congestion, shortness of breath, fatigue, and overall flu-like symptoms, like muscle aches and digestive issues. However, the Delta variant shows a smaller percentage of patients losing their sense of taste and smell. Vaccinated individuals may not experience these symptoms at all or at least experience minimal complications compared to the unvaccinated. If you are showing symptoms, you can get a COVID test from your local provider, such as LCMC Health Urgent Care in Gretna. Following a positive result, begin your quarantine and any recommended medications from your healthcare professionals. Remain in quarantine for at least 10 days after the onset of your symptoms.
2. This Variant Is Highly Contagious
Experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have compared the Delta variant to chickenpox in its rate of spread. It is estimated that one positive individual has the potential to infect up to nine others. This is nearly double the transmission rate of the original strain. To decrease your risk of infection, consider taking precautions including social distancing and masking. And, if you have tested positive, are showing symptoms of COVID, or have been in contact with someone who has, follow a minimum 10-day quarantine. This can reduce the chances of contagion.
3. Vaccinations Can Make a Difference
You are still at risk for contracting the Delta variant, even if you are fully vaccinated. These are referred to as “breakthrough cases.” However, becoming fully vaccinated can help to prevent illness and severe symptoms. There are many individuals who are ineligible to receive the vaccine, as are children 12 years and under. For those who can get vaccinated, it can drastically reduce the likelihood of catching the original strain or Delta variant. And, those who are vaccinated and still get sick are better protected against critical and life-threatening health concerns associated with the virus.
4. The Delta Variant May Make You Sicker
While symptoms of the Delta variant are similar to those of the original COVID-19, it may prove to be more dangerous. Delta has been shown to spread faster with fast-developing symptoms. Infected individuals may be more likely to be hospitalized due to complications. Men and women who are immunocompromised, overweight, or have respiratory issues are especially susceptible to the variant. Patients under 50 years of age and those who are unvaccinated are among the most likely to contract the Delta virus. While breakthrough cases are possible, those who are vaccinated are less likely to experience fatal cases of the disease than those who are not.
Stay Well With LCMC Health Urgent Care in Gretna
At LCMC Health Urgent Care, your safety and wellness are our priority. You don’t need an appointment to visit our Gretna urgent care. All you need to do is check-in online to reserve your place in line or call us at 504-349-2273 with any other questions. If you or a loved one have been experiencing flu-like symptoms, get in touch with us. Aside from our Gretna urgent care, we also have six other locations across South Louisiana. Find your closest LCMC Health and get tested today!