Understanding the Delta Variant of COVID
Know all about the delta variant of COVID, how it is unique and how it affects your health. Learn about effective preventive measures to avoid it.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 18th Oct, 2025
Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many challenges, and with the emergence of new virus variants, it’s natural to feel concerned. One such variant that gained attention is the Delta variant (B.1.617.2). If you're wondering what makes this variant different and how to stay safe, this article will help you understand it in simple terms.
What is the Delta Variant?
Viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 (the virus causing COVID-19), constantly change through mutations. The Delta variant is one such mutation that was first detected in India in late 2020. It quickly became a dominant strain in many countries due to its higher transmissibility—meaning it spreads more easily than earlier versions of the virus.
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How is the Delta Variant Different?
1. More Contagious – The Delta variant spreads 50% faster than the Alpha variant (first identified in the UK) and nearly twice as fast as the original COVID-19 strain.
2. Higher Viral Load – Studies suggest that people infected with Delta carry a much higher amount of virus in their bodies, making them more likely to spread it to others.
3. Possible Increased Severity – Some reports indicate that Delta may cause more severe illness, especially in unvaccinated individuals.
Symptoms of the Delta Variant
While symptoms are similar to the original COVID-19, some differences have been noted:
More common: Headache, sore throat, runny nose, fever.
Less common: Loss of taste or smell (which was a hallmark of earlier strains).
Severe cases: Difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion.
Because symptoms can resemble a common cold, it’s important to get tested if you experience any of these, especially if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
How Does the Delta Variant Affect Health?
Unvaccinated individuals are at higher risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications.
Vaccinated individuals can still get infected (called "breakthrough infections"), but symptoms are usually milder.
Long-term effects (Long COVID) such as fatigue, brain fog, or breathing difficulties may still occur in some cases.
How to Protect Yourself from the Delta Variant?
Following are the ways to stay protected from virus:
1. Get Vaccinated
Vaccines remain the best defense against severe illness. Studies show that:
Full vaccination (two doses of Covishield, Covaxin, or Pfizer/Moderna) significantly reduces hospitalization risk.
A booster dose may enhance protection against new variants.
2. Wear a Mask in Crowded Places
Even if vaccinated, wearing a mask in indoor or crowded settings adds an extra layer of protection.
3. Maintain Good Hygiene
Follow the below tips for good hygiene:
Wash hands frequently with soap.
Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available.
Avoid touching your face.
4. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Meeting people outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces reduces transmission risk.
5. Stay Home if Sick
If you have symptoms, isolate yourself and get tested to prevent spreading the virus.
What If You Get Infected?
Monitor symptoms – Mild cases can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and fever-reducing medicines (like paracetamol).
Seek medical help if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or confusion.
Follow doctor’s advice – Some high-risk patients may need antiviral treatments or oxygen support.
Final Thoughts
The Delta variant is highly contagious, identifying symptoms, knowing how it affects your health can give a better way to handle the infection. But following preventive measures and getting vaccinated can greatly reduce risks.
Consult a top general practitioner for the best advice
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General Practitioner
1 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Aaradhya clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Mohammed Kamran
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS, FIDM
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik
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General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
21 Years • MBBS, PGDFM
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Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(225+ Patients)
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5 Years • MBBS MD GENERAL MEDICINE
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