CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, (PIA)—The Department of Health Center for Health and Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHD NorMin) confirmed that the Corona Virus-2019 Delta variant has made its way to the shores of Northern Mindanao.
Dr. David Mendoza, DOH Local Health Support Division Chief said that with the National Inter-Agency Task Force’s reported 16 cases, six of which are in region 10. Five of these are in Cagayan de Oro City, while one is in Gingoog City.
"If the Alpha, Beta (the UK and South African) can make an increase of fifty percent in transmissibility, the Delta variant can do twice as that. The variant can severely infect an individual who has not yet got their jab against COVID-19, especially the senior citizens and persons with co-morbidities or chronic disease,” he said.
The Delta variant or the B.1.617.2 is twice transmittable compared to the other variants of COVID-19 such as Alpha, Beta, and Theta as described by the health experts.
Mendoza explained that if the Alpha, Beta, and Theta variants can infect 2-3 individuals, the Delta can infect 6-8 or twice as the other variants—which means Delta can easily be spread and infect an individual by attacking the lungs.
He said that while other variants mimic the symptoms of the original variant, Delta is different because it harms more through fever, flu, and diarrhea. It does not affect the senses of ‘smell and taste’ of the infected person.
Meanwhile, Mendoza reported that those infected by the COVID-19 Delta variant in the region have now recovered. However, he clarified that they [Delta-infected] are still in the isolation facilities for further observation to give health authorities more time to study the case. He emphasized that all those who had close contact with the six identified patients are being observed and monitored in isolation facilities.
DOH continues its call and urges senior citizens and persons with co-morbidities to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Mendoza reiterated the government’s prescript that vaccines are safe, effective, and free. (JAKA/PIA10)
