How To Keep Safe From Covid-19: #13 A Terrible Triangle
Hi there, I’m Dr. Tigger, and welcome again to the “How To Keep Safe From Covid-19” show. If you’re into history, studying ancient civilizations like the Greeks, then you probably know the fourth letter in their alphabet, “Delta.” But recently, a new “Delta” has appeared, this time as the name of a new Covid-19 variant.
OK, so now you might be thinking: There are so many mutations of the coronavirus. Why this one? Well, the reason is that it’s getting a lot of attention, mainly because of its new dominance of infections. And it all started in unlucky India, which, if you remember, already has a bad situation of Covid-19. Delta, or B.1617.2, was made a VOC, Variant of Concern, on May 11th. According to Sky News, it’s about 60% more transmissible than the “Alpha” variant, B.1.17. The Alpha variant already had a higher transmission rate than the original Covid. In my opinion, even though this variant is getting worse globally, don’t get nervous. Taking the usual precautions is the best way to stay safe. If you don’t remember them, here’s a recap.
The most common precautions to stop the spread of Covid-19, and in truth, any airborne disease, are simple and just as effective. You can probably see some signs saying to keep a distance of 6 feet from each other. That is social distancing. It would at least slow the spread of the coronavirus. But why not just avoid public and crowded spaces altogether? If you could, this is a better option, especially indoors, because having fewer people lowers the chances that someone has the virus and the risk of you getting infected. And if you are indoors, try to keep windows open and keep up ventilation so that the virus would get swept into the open. Also, whether indoors or outdoors, it’s a good idea to wear a mask. Remember to cover your mouth and nose, or it wouldn’t work.
Disinfecting is crucial, too. Use alcoholic wipes to clean your belongings, and wash your clothes if you’ve been somewhere like a hospital. However, be aware of things that could get damaged. And like as you clean other things, remember to wash your hands, frequently, to ride any germs. Just as the saying goes: “Better be safe than sick.” OK, maybe that one I made up.
Whatever is the case, the new Delta variant should be prevented, at least, for now. But that all depends on you, me, everyone else, and our choices, whether to act lazy, and not disinfect the phone, or to act according to scientifically recommended precautions. Which would you choose? And here’s another question: If you were to name a newfound variant, what would you call it? After another Greek letter? Or in some other alphabet? Open up your imaginations, share your ideas, and try to find new ways to prevent the coronavirus, to improve all our lives. So that’s the end of this episode, brought to you by the New News Newsminute. Thank you, keep safe, and stay healthy.