As viruses spread, they constantly change. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus have emerged and spread around the world. Recently, you may have heard a lot about the "Delta" variant, which is now the dominant strain in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Delta variant is highly contagious. Since children under the age of 12 cannot be vaccinated yet, parents might be especially concerned about how this variant could affect kids.
What is the Delta variant of COVID-19?
The Delta variant, also called B.1.617.2, contains mutations in the COVID-19 virus that have raised many concerns. This variant was first found in India in December 2020. This variant was detected in the U.S. in March 2021 and has since become the most prevalent variant in the country, surpassing the "Alpha" variant (also called the U.K. variant or B.1.1.7).
Is the Delta variant more dangerous?
Get answers to more common questions about the Delta COVID-19 variant and how to keep your family healthy.
