Third Wave Could Be Linked to Delta Variant

Third Wave Could Be Linked to Delta Variant- One health expert is linking the upsurge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalization to the possibility of the delta variant. The comments come as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations see a continued increase.

Jamaica’s COVID-19 positivity rate is now at 46.1% as the country experiences the third wave of infections with 1169 new cases being recorded in the last 48 hours.

Immunologist, Dr. Yohann White, says the rapid increase in cases might be the result of the delta variant, the most transmissible variant of the COVID-19, being present in Jamaica.

As the cases increase, the local health care system is being flooded with patients needing care for the virus. On Monday August 16, at least four hundred and forty-three (443) people are admitted to hospitals for Coronavirus, COVID-19. Information from the Ministry of Health and Wellness indicates that majority of the public hospitals have surpassed their maximum capacity. With the Port Maria and the Mandeville hospitals at 300 and 325% respectively.

Dr. White while noting that more young people are now being hospitalised for the virus, says not only are the hospitals overcrowded and low on oxygen but patients seeking treatment for other illnesses are faced with challenges.

The health expert notes it is important for Jamaicans to know that the numbers being reported are just a fraction of the COVID-19reality in Jamaica.

He’s urging Jamaicans who are able to get vaccinated to do so.