COVID-19 Delta Variant Raises Concern, MUSC Doctor Says

CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) – A MUSC epidemiologist says he’s far more concerned about the Delta variant of the new coronavirus than any other.

The state Department of Health and Environmental Control says at least a handful of cases of the Delta variant have been reported in South Carolina. But it’s important to note that not all COVID-19 tests performed specifically look for this variant, so the number could be higher.

Researchers say the Delta variant, which was first detected in India, is believed to be more transmissible than other versions of the virus.

Dr Robert Ball says the best way to prevent more infections of the variant is to get more of the community vaccinated. Although the vaccine does not offer 100% protection against the variant, Ball says those who are vaccinated will still be well protected.

“To develop a high level of immunity, far more than the just under 50% that South Carolina and the nation currently have, we need about 70 to 80% of people vaccinated for community immunity.” said Ball.

When it comes to wearing a mask, Ball says it’s not necessary outdoors, but he still recommends wearing them indoors.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meanwhile, says states with fewer residents vaccinated have infection rates three times higher than other states. Ten states saw increases of more than 25% in the past week compared to the previous week.

Nine of these states have a lower rate of vaccinated residents than the country as a whole.

The CDC says 67% of Americans are partially vaccinated and 47% are fully vaccinated.

In South Carolina, those numbers drop to just 48% for partially vaccinated residents and 42% for those who are fully vaccinated.

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