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    Updated: Delta Variant; CDC & State response.

    Delta Variant; increased cases; CDC & State response.

    Update:

    According to ABC News, starting tomorrow (Thurs 8/12), Philadelphia will require masks to be worn inside businesses, unless proof of vaccination is provided. 

    In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy has mandated that all students and staff in the public school system, from kindergarten through 12th grade, must wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status, due to the spread of the Delta variant. 

    Please note that cloth masks alone may not be as effective against variants. If possible, use a paper mask inside a cloth mask or consider an N95 mask for better protection. 

    Stay safe.

    Just when we thought the worst was over, Covid resurfaces. It’s important to know that even if you’re vaccinated, you can still catch Covid. This raises concerns about in-person versus virtual schooling, especially since children under 12 cannot get vaccinated. With the emergence of new variants, the virus is spreading rapidly.

    Although vaccination rates have increased, it’s not a complete solution. The vaccines were developed to combat the original Covid-19 strain, but they may be less effective against the current variants. However, this doesn’t mean they don’t work at all. They’re just not as comprehensive in dealing with the variant strains as they are with the original virus. Let’s focus on the Delta strain, one of the prominent variants.

    What is the Delta Variant strain?

    The Delta variant is a very contagious form of the COVID-19 virus. It was first discovered in India in December and is currently spreading rapidly across our country, becoming the most dominant variant. According to the CDC, it is even more contagious than the common cold or the flu. With summer events and the upcoming school season, it’s understandable why there is growing concern. 

    Delta Variant strain
    CDC warns about the highly contagious and rapidly spreading Delta variant strain.

    Consider a scenario where no one is vaccinated or wearing masks. In this case, the original coronavirus strain could infect around 2.5 people, while the delta strain could infect 3.5 to 4 people, spreading rapidly.

    Well, I am vaccinated. Surely, I should be fine, right?

    Getting vaccinated lowers your risk of contracting Covid and reduces the severity of symptoms if you do get infected. However, it’s important to note that being vaccinated does not provide a cure. Vaccines help slow down the spread of the virus and mitigate severe symptoms. They buy us time to find a cure and increase the chances of survival. 

    The Delta variant spreads easily, so getting vaccinated is extremely important. Children, especially those under 12, are at a higher risk since there is no approved vaccine for them yet. 

    Keep yourself and your loved ones safe by following the CDC guidelines.

    – Opt for outdoor spaces instead of indoor ones.

    – Avoid crowded indoor spaces.

    – Wear masks indoors, particularly around unfamiliar individuals whose vaccination status is unknown.

    – Consider double masking in indoor public spaces if you are unvaccinated.

    – Reinstate previous preventive measures like using hand sanitizer, washing hands regularly, and sanitizing purchased items. Additionally, wearing masks in public spaces, especially when unsure of others’ vaccination status, is crucial.

    How are we, as a country protecting against these variant strains?

    Masks will soon be mandatory again, not just a suggestion. Many stores and businesses are already requesting mask usage, and an official CDC mandate is expected soon. Currently, wearing masks is strongly encouraged. 

    Efforts are underway to make vaccines more accessible and encourage more people to get vaccinated. Stay tuned for the latest updates during the upcoming briefing on Wednesday, August 11th, at 10:30 AM.

    In the Philadelphia School District, masks are required for everyone, and air purifiers have been installed in classrooms.

    How can I tell if I have it? Is it similar to the original Covid strain?

    If you have symptoms such as sinus congestion, runny nose, sore throat, or excessive sneezing, it’s a good idea to get tested for the virus.

    Other important info to know:

    President Biden has extended the eviction moratorium until October 3. Also, it’s important to note that COVID-19 vaccines did not cause the Delta variant. Please avoid spreading false information.

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