Why Delta Is The 'Variant Of The Future' Come Early

Delta is the “variant of the future” come early. This is how one of the most regarded COVID immunologists in the United States describes the mutant strain that’s now causing surges in Missouri and other low-vaccination states, filling hospitals with younger sets of patients.

It’s another exhausting twist in an outbreak defined by them. Before delta was detected in India and dubbed B.1.617.2, new versions of the coronavirus had been worrisome but manageable despite their faster spread.

Rapid-fire research had demonstrated our immune systems are sturdy and that a full course of COVID-19 vaccines could shield us against the early mutants. Even partial vaccination or immunity built up after infection with the original strain—SARS-CoV-2 classic—provided protection.

But studies this month from the United Kingdom shift the immunity narrative. According to the latest findings from Public Health England, one dose of COVID-19 vaccine—specifically Pfizer and AstraZeneca—cannot withstand the delta variant.

WNYC's Rebeca Ibarra spoke with health and science editor Nsikan Akpan about the new variant and how it could affect all New Yorkers, whether they're vaccinated or unvaccinated.  

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