COVID-19 Updates – Delta Variant and Vaccine Information

Millions of Americans have gotten their COVID-19 vaccines, but millions more still need to. Here are the latest updates about the ongoing pandemic.

COVID-19 Vaccine

We’ll keep it short because you’ve heard it all year – but that’s because of how important it is. If you haven’t yet done so, get the COVID-19 vaccine. And encourage your employees to get theirs. The vaccines are safe and effective. To end the pandemic, we need as many people vaccinated as possible. For all you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccines, visit this CDC webpage. We deeply thank you if you’ve already gotten your shots.

Information About the Delta Variant

You’ve probably been hearing a lot about the delta variant in the news. As always, we’re here to provide you with the most up-to-date information available.

The CDC defines the delta variant as a Variant of Concern (VOC). This label – VOC – is given when a variant shows evidence of one (but not necessarily all) of the following characteristics: a greater ability to spread, more severe cases of the disease (for example, increased hospitalizations or deaths), a significant reduction in how well antibodies from previous infection or vaccination neutralize the virus, the reduced effectiveness of treatments or vaccines, or failures in the ability to detect and diagnose the variant.

The delta variant was first identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) in individuals in India. Here are some important facts:

• Currently, CDC officials have validated that 83% of all new COVID-19 cases in the U.S. are linked to the delta variant. 
• The CDC identified the delta variant as more easily spread – including to children – than previous variants.
• Some data shows the delta variant is more able to resist the antibodies we currently have.
• On a positive note, the CDC confirms that all the current COVID-19 vaccines largely protect vaccinated individuals from severe disease and greatly reduce the possibility of hospitalization or death from the delta variant.

The CDC continues to recommend the following ways to protect yourself, your employees and their families, from COVID-19:

• By far the most important – get a COVID-19 vaccine when it’s available to plan members.
• Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth to help protect yourself and others.
• Stay six feet apart, when possible, from others who don’t live with you.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.
• Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces.
• Ask your doctor if you have any specific questions or concerns.

As always, the CDC’s COVID-19 website includes great resources to help you learn more about the virus, current variants, and the best ways to protect yourself and your employees.

Stay safe this summer, and – as always – know that we’re here for you. Give us a call at the number on the back of your health plan ID card, and visit our webpage for more information about COVID-19. We’re honored to be your trusted health plan partner.

If you have any questions, you can contact us directly at ClientSupport@healthalliance.org or by calling (217) 902-8151. We’re committed to keeping you and your employees healthy and informed.