Winona Lake, Ind. – It has been a challenging, confusing time for our community as we work through the global pandemic at a local level. Just as we’re beginning to find a sense of “normalcy,” our world is changing again with another rise of COVID-19 through the Delta variant. But what hasn’t changed is the Hoosier spirit—and the commitment to pursuing what is best for ourselves and the ones we love. Over 44% of our population has been vaccinated, and that number continues to rise.
Based on the evidence shown from data and results, getting vaccinated adds significant protection for ourselves, our families, and our loved ones. Our community and state have been doing their part in taking precautions to fight this virus. Tracking our progress is important to keep moving forward.
As of early August, these were the stats for Indiana:
- Total tests administered: 11,339,156
- Total doses administered: 6,098,894
- Total fully vaccinated: 2,987,001 (44%)
- Total positive cases: 779,317
- Total deaths: 13,615
While some of these numbers are encouraging, we can still do more. As the Delta variant makes its impact on our state and community, consider receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Despite the public’s initial concerns regarding the vaccine’s rapid development, studies have continually shown it to be safe and effective.
As of August 23, 2021, the FDA has officially granted full approval for Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine—which signifies additional confidence in the vaccine’s safety. Getting vaccinated could put your mind at ease, as well as reduce your risk of infection, transmission, and severe symptoms.
The Latest Variant
Delta, a highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 virus strain, swept rapidly through India and Great Britain before reaching the U.S., where it is now the predominant variant. At the end of July, the Delta variant represented over 80% of new COVID cases in the United States.
So far, people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 have strong protection against Delta compared to those who aren’t. The Kaiser Foundation puts breakthrough (those fully vaccinated) cases at well below 1% in the U.S., and essentially 0% for severe illness and death. Statistically, anyone who is unvaccinated and not practicing preventive strategies is at a higher risk for infection by the new variant.
The most effective step you can take to protect yourself from Delta is to get fully vaccinated.
There is still so much we don’t know about the Delta variant, but as we learn more, K21 Health Foundation will continue to provide information to our community and encourage everyone to make the best health decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
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K21 Health Foundation focuses on improving health and wellness for the residents of Kosciusko County. The organization seeks to ensure that health care services are provided and to advance prevention and healthy living. K21 accomplishes this by maintaining an endowment, which funds community projects and needs through investments and grants.
