Epidemiology professor Dr. Timothy Brewer answers your most pressing questions about the delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
While normal is not exactly the objective right now, everyday activities have become a bit safer.
What is the COVID-19 Delta variant?
Evidence suggests the variant brings anincreased risk of hospitalization, too.
Variants occur naturally as viruses jump from person to person, mutating slightly in the process.
There are mixed messages about whether or not vaccinated people should wear masks.
professor of medicine and epidemiology at UCLA
However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says vaccinated people can discontinue wearing masks.
So if youre confused about whether or not to mask up, its understandable.
When advising on this topic, Dr.
Brewer points out thatCOVID-19 vaccines are highly effectiveagainst the Delta variant.
Okay, so when should I mask up?
Brewer SP says practicing good hygienee.g., regular hand-washingand staying home when sick are still essential.
Should I avoid indoor dining since I cant wear a mask while I eat?
If youre vaccinated, the short answer is no, says Dr. Its also wise to take into account COVID-19 case counts in your region.
And certainly, I would not go to a restaurant if youre not feeling well, Dr. ## Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
professor of medicine and epidemiology at UCLA
I live in an area with low vaccination rates and high case counts.
Should I take more precautions?
And remember, in doing so, youre not just protecting yourself.
What about travel this summer?
Im vaccinated, but should I change my plans?
And continuing to wear a mask on planes, buses, and trains is required.
Brewer says he would recommend doing so in airports and other transit hubs as well.
The CDC agrees with this advice and further recommendsadhering to all state and local recommendationsand requirements at your destination.
Common-sense precautions should continue to prevail throughout your trip, Dr.
However, he wouldnt personally feel compelled to wear one on a beach.
Ive heard stories about fully vaccinated people getting sick and even dying from the Delta variant.
How worried should I be about that?
This means immunocompromised, or otherwise vulnerable individuals, should continue to take precautions around unvaccinated children.
And, children should continue to mask up and social distance when possible until theyre eligible for the vaccine.
What should I tell my unvaccinated friends and family members about the Delta variant?
A recent study inLancetlooked at demographics, hospitalizations, and vaccinations in Scotland.
They are also more likely to transmit it to someone who cannot be vaccinated.
Wait, will variants force us into a fall or winter lockdown?
Its possible, says Dr.
Brewer, but a widespread lockdown is unlikely at this point.
While theres still a lot of work to do around raising overall U.S. vaccination rates, Dr.
Brewer says vaccination numbers continue to climb.
The other reason to be hopeful?
So far, vaccination seems to protect against existing variants, Dr.
But, at least so far, that hasnt happened.
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