Overview
The Delta variant was more transmissible and virulent than earlier strains. It was associated with a higher risk of hospitalization and more severe illness.
Symptoms
Symptoms included fever, a persistent cough, shortness of breath, loss of smell and taste, headache, and severe body aches.
Causes
Delta had mutations that made it more easily transmissible and better able to evade the immune system.
Treatment
Treatment included supportive care, oxygen therapy, and antivirals for severe cases.
When to See a Doctor
Due to the severity, anyone with symptoms during the Delta wave was urged to seek testing and care.