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COVID Vaccination and Breakthrough Delta Infection

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COVID Vaccination and Breakthrough Delta Infection

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Read this article to learn more facts regarding vaccines, Delta variants, and breakthroughs.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Arora Prerna

Published At August 18, 2021
Reviewed AtMarch 27, 2023

Introduction:

Since the day COVID hit the planet in December 2019, it has been continuously mutating to develop into more virulent strains, such as the Delta and Delta Plus variants. Simultaneously, vaccines’ advent created a significant impact in reducing COVID complications and death rates.

While the whole world was getting accustomed to COVID by implementing defensive disease control strategies, especially by developing vaccines and increasing the vaccination rates among the population, the Delta variants posed a challenge to humankind.

Breakthrough infections among the vaccinated population and such people spreading the COVID infection back to the unvaccinated population have led to an unbreakable incessant COVID chain.

Why Delta Variant of SARS-CoV-2 is Concerning:

The Delta variant (B.1.617.2) of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2) is a variant of the original Coronavirus with its origin in India. This strain is more than twice as contagious as the original and previous strains, meaning it could infect more people fast with more infections than previous strains. It is also confirmed that Delta variants cause severe illness compared to their previous variants.

Due to its high contagiousness and infectivity, the Delta variant became the dominant variant causing fresh COVID infections in the United States, United Kingdom, India, and several parts of the world. It increases the risk of hospitalization in unvaccinated people.

If a Person Is Fully Vaccinated Will They Get Affected by COVID-19?

Whether or not a person is fully vaccinated, the chances of contracting COVID are high if a person do not follow social distancing, hand sanitation, and wear masks. This is because of the low vaccinated to unvaccinated ratio and the evolution of more virulent strains.

Eventually, the infection from unvaccinated people gets transmitted to the vaccinated ones and vice versa, thereby maintaining the COVID spreading chain intact.

Although vaccines offer life-saving protection against coronavirus infection, they are not 100 % effective. This is true for any vaccine. Hence breakthrough infections were an expected scenario amidst the vaccinated population, especially with the evolution of the Delta and other suspected variants like the Omicron.

What Does Breakthrough Infection Mean?

When fully vaccinated, people contract COVID infection with or without symptoms; it is called breakthrough COVID infection. And the percentage of breakthrough infections is becoming high with the emergence of more virulent strains like the Delta.

All viruses in an epidemic or pandemic mutate constantly. But the fear is that if the rate of infection spread is not controlled, these mutations continuously lead to the development of newer strains with more contagiousness. The more the viruses spread within the population, the more virulent they become and resist vaccines’ protection.

A vaccinated person with a breakthrough COVID infection may or may not develop symptoms. If symptoms are present, they resemble the signs of a usual COVID infection like runny or stuffy nose, body pain, fever, headache, loss of smell and taste, diarrhea, fatigue, shortness of breath, etc. The infection severity and duration of infection prevailing in the bodies of vaccinated people are less in comparison to unvaccinated people. Some people can also be asymptomatic.

Vaccinated People and COVID Transmission:

Recent studies from various parts of the world suggest that the viral load that vaccinated COVID infected people carry in their bodies is similar to that of unvaccinated people. Also, the death of a fully vaccinated 63-year-old woman from Mumbai, India, was reported, adding more concerns about vaccine efficacy and Delta strains.

Even if someone vaccinated is asymptomatic, testing their nasal swabs for COVID has revealed increased viral load due to the highly prevalent Delta strain within the community. It is believed that the inner nasal lining and throat continued to remain as the reservoirs of Coronaviruses in vaccinated individuals. With compromised COVID control protocols among the vaccinated people, these viruses spread to other unvaccinated people (also vaccinated) while talking, sneezing, coughing, and contact with respiratory droplet-contaminated hands.

More viral particles were found in the airways of Delta variant-infected vaccinated individuals. Viral loads were a thousandfold increased in Delta infection comparatively, reports a Chinese study.

Do Vaccines Offer Protection Against Delta Infection?

All scientists, researchers, and physicians have constantly been stressing the importance of vaccines in the battle against COVID. No doubt, vaccines offer protection against COVID infection. The Delta variant does evade the vaccine-induced antibodies in our body. Still, vaccines reduce the severity of illness, reduce the need for hospitalization, and decrease death rates due to health complications. And that is why everyone is concerned with the vaccine rates. Even as of now, only a few populations have been vaccinated worldwide. Increasing vaccine manufacture with a rapid rise in the curve of vaccination rates is of high priority.

If we question the vaccine efficacy against the Delta variant and other newly emerging variants, then as per the studies available till now, we found the neutralization activity of sera of vaccinated people against the Delta variant is detectable but less when compared to the neutralization activity of vaccinated sera against the original Wuhan strain.

Infection Transmission From the Vaccinated to the Unvaccinated:

A study found that people who received a single dose of the COVID vaccine developed little to no neutralizing antibodies against the Delta infection, while those who received both shots developed neutralizing activity that was three to five folds less potent against the Delta variant than the Alpha variant. These studies emphasize the protective measures that vaccinated individuals must follow and their risk of getting infected and transmitting the same to others.

Hence experts suggest physical distancing, masking, and hand sanitation be followed even in fully vaccinated individuals. Asymptomatic vaccinated individuals harbor Coronavirus inside their nose and throat that they might transmit to whoever they meet and talk to without a mask.

In several countries, more than 90 % of the COVID cases at present are due to the Delta infection. With such a deadly strain prevailing within the communities and more new variants of concern of the coronavirus emerge, resulting in a surge in cases, getting vaccinated is the only powerful weapon in hand.

Conclusion:

Regardless of the vaccination status, apex health bodies recommend masking, social distancing, and hand sanitation to be followed while outdoors. Meanwhile, studies, research, and trials to develop nasal COVID vaccines and booster shots are in progress; disease control and prevention of infection transmission are the need of the hour to put a stop to the viral mutations. Until a decent percentage of people get vaccinated, and COVID control protocols are strictly followed, COVID infection circulates within the planet like a boomerang.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

Do Vaccines Provide Protection Against the Delta Variant?

Vaccines have shown effectiveness in protecting against the Delta variant of COVID-19. While no vaccine is 100 percent foolproof, studies have indicated that authorized vaccines offer substantial defense against the Delta variant, reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. It is important to note that vaccination remains a crucial strategy in controlling the spread of the Delta variant and minimizing its impact on public health.

2.

How Effective Is the Vaccine in Preventing the Delta Variant?

The vaccine's effectiveness in preventing the Delta variant can vary depending on the specific vaccine used and individual circumstances. However, multiple studies have shown that authorized COVID-19 vaccines protect significantly against the Delta variant. Vaccinated individuals are less likely to experience severe illness, hospitalization, or death compared to those who are unvaccinated. It is essential to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading the Delta variant.

3.

Which Vaccine Offers the Best Protection Against the Omicron Variant?

Determining the vaccine that offers the best protection against the Omicron variant is an ongoing area of research and evaluation. As new variants emerge, vaccine effectiveness may vary. Scientists and health authorities continuously monitor and analyze data to assess vaccine performance against different variants. It is crucial to stay updated with the latest information from health authorities regarding the most effective vaccines for combating the Omicron variant and follow their recommendations for vaccination.

4.

Is It Possible to Combine Pfizer and Moderna Vaccines?

While both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have been proven effective in preventing COVID-19, it is generally recommended to stick with the same vaccine for both doses. However, in certain situations where the same vaccine is unavailable for the second dose, some health authorities may allow a different vaccine. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals or follow official guidelines to make an informed decision about mixing Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

5.

How Long Does the Effectiveness of a Booster Shot Last?

The duration of effectiveness for a booster shot can vary depending on the specific vaccine and individual factors. Current research suggests that booster shots provide an additional layer of protection against COVID-19 and its variants. However, the exact duration of this enhanced protection is still being studied. It is important to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals and public health authorities regarding the timing and necessity of booster shots to ensure continued immunity and protection.

6.

Which COVID Vaccine Is Recommended for Seniors?

The COVID-19 vaccines available for seniors may vary depending on country, region, and availability. Generally, multiple vaccines have been authorized for use in seniors, including Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. The vaccine choice for seniors may depend on factors such as vaccine availability, efficacy data, and any specific recommendations from health authorities. It is advised for seniors to consult with their healthcare provider or follow local guidelines to determine the most suitable COVID-19 vaccine for their age group.

7.

Is It Safe to Take Tylenol After Receiving a COVID Booster?

It is generally considered safe to take Acetaminophen after receiving a COVID booster shot. Acetaminophen can help alleviate common side effects such as pain, fever, or discomfort at the injection site. However, following the specific instructions provided by healthcare professionals or included with the vaccine regarding pain relievers is recommended. If there are any concerns or specific medical conditions, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.

8.

Can a Person Still Contract the Omicron Variant After Receiving a Booster Shot?

While a booster shot can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the Omicron variant, it is still possible to become infected, albeit with a lower probability. Vaccines offer high protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death, even against variants such as Omicron. However, breakthrough infections can occur, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or those exposed to high viral loads. It is crucial to continue following recommended preventive measures, such as wearing masks and practicing good hygiene, even after receiving a booster shot.

9.

What Antibodies Are Effective Against the Omicron Variant?

Research is still ongoing to determine the specific antibodies that are effective against the Omicron variant. Preliminary studies suggest that some neutralizing antibodies generated by previous COVID-19 infections or vaccination may protect Omicron, although the effectiveness may be reduced compared to earlier variants. It is important to note that the immune response is complex, and multiple components of the immune system work together to provide protection. Further research is needed to understand better the specific antibodies and immune responses that effectively combat the Omicron variant.

10.

Can A Person Take Benadryl After Receiving the COVID Vaccine?

Taking Diphenhydramine after receiving the COVID vaccine is generally considered safe. It is an over-the-counter antihistamine commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms and can help manage mild side effects such as itching, redness, or swelling at the injection site. However, it is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals or follow the instructions provided with the vaccine for specific guidance on the use of medications after vaccination. They can provide personalized recommendations based on individual health conditions and any potential interactions with the COVID vaccine.

11.

Can Both Vaccines Be Administered in the Same Arm?

Yes, it is possible to administer both COVID vaccines in the same arm. The standard practice is administering the vaccines in the deltoid muscle of the upper arm. This allows for easy monitoring of any localized reactions or side effects. However, it is important to ensure the vaccines are administered at separate injection sites within the same arm to avoid any interference or confusion in tracking potential side effects. Following the recommended spacing between doses is also essential for optimal vaccine effectiveness.

12.

What Are the Symptoms of COVID in Vaccinated Adults?

The symptoms of COVID-19 in vaccinated adults can vary, but vaccinated individuals are generally less likely to experience severe symptoms. Common symptoms of COVID-19 in vaccinated adults may include cough, fever, fatigue, body aches, headache, and loss of taste or smell. However, it is important to note that some vaccinated individuals may experience no or milder symptoms than unvaccinated individuals. If one experiences any symptoms or have concerns, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance and testing.

13.

How Long Is a Vaccinated Individual Contagious with Breakthrough COVID?

The contagious period for breakthrough COVID-19 cases in vaccinated individuals can vary. While breakthrough infections are generally less contagious than infections in unvaccinated individuals, transmitting the virus to others is still possible. The duration of contagiousness depends on various factors, including the individual's immune response, viral load, and specific circumstances. It is important for vaccinated individuals who test positive for COVID-19 to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals and public health authorities regarding isolation and quarantine protocols to prevent further transmission.

14.

Does Lack of Sleep Impact the Effectiveness of the Vaccine?

Lack of sleep does not directly affect the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine. Sleep deprivation may impact the overall immune function and response to infections in general, but no specific evidence suggests that it reduces the vaccine's effectiveness. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including adequate sleep, can support overall immune health and enhance the body's response to vaccines. It is important to prioritize good sleep habits and other recommended preventive measures to optimize immune function and overall well-being.

15.

Is a Sore Throat a Possible Side Effect of the COVID Booster Shot?

A sore throat can be a possible side effect of the COVID booster shot. Some individuals may experience mild discomfort or irritation in the throat following vaccination. However, it is important to note that a sore throat can also be a symptom of COVID-19 itself. If one has any concerns or if the sore throat persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and guidance.
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Dr. Arora Prerna
Dr. Arora Prerna

General Practitioner

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