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The original SARS-CoV-2 variant has almost completely disappeared. The Delta variant has now taken the lead, accounting for about 95% of all infections. Let’s take a quick look at the facts regarding this variant.

Due to the higher transmissibility of the Delta variant, many countries are reporting a rise in new infections. Fortunately, vaccines are still considered highly effective, even against the Delta variant, though their effectiveness against symptomatic cases may slightly decrease. Still, all approved vaccines continue to provide around 95% protection against severe cases and hospitalizations. The fact that mild infections are now possible with the Delta variant doesn’t mean the vaccines have lost their value.

The exception, where the vaccine is less effective—and this was the case even before the Delta variant—is in patients with multiple preexisting conditions or those who are immunosuppressed, as well as people who get infected shortly after vaccination, when the vaccines haven’t yet had the chance to fully take effect. The likelihood of severe illness or a breakthrough infection in fully vaccinated individuals remains very low.

It is still crucial to get vaccinated if you have the opportunity. Variants like Delta always arise in countries with lower vaccination rates. And while Delta is far more contagious than the original strain, transmission of the virus is significantly lower in fully vaccinated individuals compared to those who are unvaccinated. The unvaccinated population remains the primary driver of the pandemic.

Check Your Sources

Even reliable data can be misleadingly interpreted. Recently, various media outlets claimed that 40 to 50% of hospital admissions were among vaccinated people. These are misleading statements that only tell half the story. In reality, this is actually a positive sign, showing that vaccination rates are higher and that the overall number of cases is lower thanks to the vaccines.

Here’s an analogy: If, since the introduction of seatbelt laws, only people wearing seatbelts die in car accidents, does that mean seatbelts are useless? 😉

Closing Words

Stay calm, but take the situation seriously. The pandemic is far from over. Special measures are still important to contain the spread of the virus andto protect yourself and others.

We know what to do:

• Get vaccinated as soon as you have the opportunity.

• Continue wearing face masks.

• Maintain sufficient distance from others.

• Do not spread false information. If you're not sure if the information is true, don't say anything at all.