Health professionals and medical organizations across the globe highly recommend immunizations. Getting immunized is important for at least two reasons: to protect ourselves and those around us. Vaccines are the best way to prevent infectious disease and to help to keep us from getting seriously ill. A successful immunization program depends upon the participation of everyone. It is vital to get vaccinated regardless of whether you already had COVID-19. Evidence is rising that people get better protection by being fully vaccinated compared with having had COVID-19. One study showed that unvaccinated people who already had COVID-19 are more than 2 times as likely than fully vaccinated people to get COVID-19 again.
The COVID Delta is of growing concern. The variant can cause more severe illnesses than prior variants in unvaccinated. The Delta is more contagious as it has a higher viral load allowing transmissions rates to be higher. Vaccines continue to reduce a person’s risk of contracting COVID-19, including the Delta variant.
Vaccination continues to be highly effective at preventing hospitalization and death, including against emerging variants. Less than 0.004% of people who have been fully vaccinated have experienced breakthrough infections resulting in hospitalizations, less than 0.001% of vaccinated people have died from the disease. For those vaccinated that have experienced breakthrough infections from Delta, they are ill for a shorter period and experience less symptoms.
The pandemic is ongoing. There are new variants emerging. Global variant of most concern presently is the Delta variant, due to increase transmissibility compared to the original strain. The vaccine protects against severe disease. The future of Variants of Concern is unclear at present. Continued vigilance is required. Vaccinate, wear a mask, socially distance and wash your hands. Stay safe.
