Protecting Our Unvaccinated Children From the COVID-19 Delta Variant

As many of us emerge from a prolonged period of confinement, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about the ongoing threats posed by the COVID-19 Delta variant. If you’ve ensured that everyone eligible in your household is vaccinated—thank you!—but we still have to look out for our unvaccinated children.

Unfortunately, the Delta variant is making its presence known, accounting for about a quarter of all cases in the U.S. This strain spreads rapidly, especially among unvaccinated individuals, including children. Here’s what you need to understand about this variant and how you can safeguard your kids.

Understanding the Delta Variant

With so many COVID-19 variants, it can be confusing. However, the Delta variant is particularly concerning. According to Dr. Anthony Fauci, it is expected to become the dominant strain in the U.S. soon. Here’s why:

Higher Contagiousness: Originating from India, the Delta variant is roughly 60% more contagious than the original strain. This means it spreads more than twice as fast, which could lead to a rapid increase in cases.
Increased Hospitalization Risks: Research has shown that those infected with the Delta variant may be twice as likely to require hospitalization compared to those infected with earlier strains.
Different Symptoms: While we’re familiar with the classic COVID symptoms, Delta may present differently. Symptoms like headaches, sore throats, and runny noses are now more common, potentially leading to further spread as individuals may mistake them for minor illnesses.

Who is Most at Risk?

The unvaccinated and children are particularly vulnerable, especially since vaccines for children under 12 have not yet been approved. Recent data indicates that kids aged 5 to 12 are five times more likely to contract COVID than adults over 65. Research suggests that even mild cases in children could lead to prolonged symptoms.

Steps to Protect Your Unvaccinated Children

If you have unvaccinated children, here are some important measures to consider:

Vaccination for Adults: If you haven’t yet been vaccinated, now is the time. Fully vaccinated individuals are significantly less likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID-19.
Mask-Wearing: Ensure that your unvaccinated children wear masks in public spaces. The World Health Organization recommends that even vaccinated individuals continue this practice in indoor settings.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local COVID-19 infection rates and remain vigilant about unusual symptoms in your children.

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Summary

With the Delta variant on the rise, it is vital to prioritize the safety of unvaccinated children. By ensuring vaccinations for adults, promoting masks, and staying informed, we can help protect our kids from this dangerous variant.

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