The rise of delta variant ‘is troubling,’ CDC director says

Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recently expressed concern over the rise of the delta coronavirus variant as case numbers climb quicker than she expected.

• “Although we expected the delta variant to become the dominant strain in the United States, this rapid rise is troubling,” she said, according to CNN.

But Walensky has a quick fix — vaccination.

• “Widespread vaccination is what will truly turn the corner on this pandemic,” Walensky said, according to CNN. “Please know, if you are not vaccinated, you remain susceptible.” 

Third shot to fight delta variant

Pfizer and BioNTech said Thursday they are working together to develop a COVID-19 booster shot that would specifically fight the delta coronavirus variant.

• USA Today reports that Pfizer wants to create a third vaccine dose to boost immunity for the fully vaccinated. However, the company wants another dose created that would specifically hit the delta variant. It’s unclear if there would be two options for the third dose or you woudl only need one.

What if you’re fully vaccinated?

Walensky said on the “Today” show at the end of June that fully vaccinated people don’t need to worry about the variants.

• “If you are vaccinated, you are safe from the variants that are circulating here in the United States,” she said.
• She added, “We would suggest that you look to your local policies. ... Masking policies are not to protect the vaccinated, they’re to protect the unvaccinated.”