The Delta Variant of Corona Virus is more infectious, here's how to prevent it

Jakarta - Of the many variants of coronavirus mutations, the delta variant is 60 percent more infectious than the alpha variant. This is due to several mutations in proteins that allow the virus to penetrate and infect healthy cells. In addition, a person infected with the delta variant can spread it to 5-8 other people.

To date, the delta variant has spread to around 62 countries worldwide, including Indonesia. Knowing that the delta variant is more easily and quickly transmitted, certainly makes people worry. However, avoid excessive panic because it can make you unable to think clearly. The World Health Organization (WHO) said, although the delta variant is more contagious, there are preventive measures that can be taken.

Continuing to adhere to health protocols is still the best way to prevent the delta variant of the coronavirus. In addition, prevention efforts must be tightened and more disciplined by applying the following methods:

An effective way to prevent coronavirus transmission is to limit non-essential gatherings. Organizing family and friends gatherings is often a trigger for corona clusters.

Although included in the closest circle, make sure to always minimize contact, especially since the delta variant of the corona virus is more contagious. This may be difficult to do, but it is still important to implement so that the COVID-19 pandemic can be resolved immediately and activities can return to normal.

Everyone who lives outside your home and you meet increases your risk and makes contact tracing more difficult. Conditions like this are a good time to reduce the number of families in the circle. This condition needs to be understood for a while since things are not as safe as they used to be.

If you can identify a safe circle of a few very trusted people, then you can get through this pandemic. If you have a very large social circle, it will be difficult to manage or track when one member is infected.

In the current pandemic conditions, it is better to shorten the time and energy you spend shopping at the market or mall. Every minute you spend shopping at the market or mall will increase your risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

If possible, use alternative shopping options such as drive thru or online shopping. Take advantage of technology and innovation that is already sophisticated and makes it easier for you to buy your daily needs.

If you can't work remotely or work from home, it's best to move work meetings outdoors, if possible. Keep in mind, many infections are acquired through contact in the workplace. So, make sure to always keep your distance at work, moving meetings or other gatherings outdoors if possible, or even virtual.

As for school activities, discuss with teachers to make the learning process safer but still effective. For example, online schooling, or reducing the number of students in the class if it must be face-to-face, or moving activities outdoors.

Places of worship also rank high risk for virus transmission. Worship activities where the congregation gathers can cause a large spread. Worshipping at home may not be as comfortable and solemn as in a place of worship, but it will prevent transmission and you will feel safe.

Keep wearing a mask when you are outdoors. Try to wear a more effective mask, namely a double mask (surgical mask and cloth mask) to increase protection or a surgical mask only.

Using only a cloth mask is not recommended. Although cloth masks provide some protection, the ability of the mask to protect the body from the virus may depend on the type of fabric, the number of layers of fabric, and how well the mask fits.

Practice hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Also use a hand sanitizer that contains (at least) 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are inaccessible.

If it's your turn, get vaccinated immediately. Although coronavirus variants continue to mutate, it does not limit the effectiveness of the vaccine. At least it doesn't aggravate your symptoms if you are infected at any time.

Those are some ways to prevent transmission of the delta variant of the corona virus that can be done. Remember to follow health protocols and contact your doctor immediately through the Halodoc application if you experience any suspicious symptoms.