As the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617, or Delta variant virus continues to drive an increase in COVID-19 cases around the world, many are wondering how the new variant impacts the effectiveness of current vaccines. With reports of rare breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals, it’s time to take a deep dive into the science and learn more about how vaccines’ protection efforts stack up against the Delta variant.

Booster shots are now recommended

The CDC is now recommending booster shots for immunocompromised individuals who received an initial two-dose vaccine. However, vaccines still provide significant protection against hospitalization and severe disease.

Vaccinated people are still less likely to test positive for COVID-19

According to emerging research from Imperial College London, individuals who had received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine were three times less likely to test positive for the virus compared to those who were unvaccinated.

Vaccinated people can still spread the virus

Despite the effectiveness of vaccines in preventing severe illness, the Delta variant is still highly transmissible, even among vaccinated individuals, according to a report from the CDC.

How can I protect myself from the Delta variant?

It’s important to note that vaccines still provide protection against SARS-CoV-2 infections, and are your best chance to prevent severe illness and death. While scientists work to understand the impact of new variants, it’s important to take action to protect yourself and others.

If you are vaccinated:

• Wear a mask in areas of high community spread.
• If you feel sick, stay home, get tested, and isolate yourself from others.
• If you are vaccinated and are exposed to someone who has COVID-19, get tested 3-5 days after exposure. Wear a mask for 14 days, or until you receive a negative test result.

If you are unvaccinated:

• Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from severe illness and death, so get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as you are able. Here’s a quick CDC guide to help you learn more about how these vaccines were made.
• Wear a mask, regardless of community transmission in your area.
• Stay 6 feet apart from others in condensed, high-traffic areas.
• Stay home if you feel sick, and get tested if you were exposed to COVID-19.

Vaccination, frequent testing, and continued vigilance are critical as we work to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.