Delta variant of COVID-19 confirmed in Delta, Montrose counties | New

In Montrose County, according to state data, there were three confirmed cases of the Delta variant. Also according to state data, only 44.7% of the eligible population of Montrose County had received at least one dose of a COVID vaccine on Friday.

According to a press release from Delta County Public Health, the Delta variant of the virus has been identified in 30 counties in Colorado because it is considered significantly more transmissible than the first alpha variant detected (B.1.1.7) and is associated with increased severity. Seventy-five percent of all COVID-19 cases in Colorado are derived from the Delta variant.

Studies also indicate that the Delta variant causes more serious illness, with about double the hospitalization rate of the alpha variant.

The Delta variant (B.1.617.2) was first detected in India and is widely regarded by public health experts as one of the most transmissible and severe variants of COVID-19 to date.

“What we have learned about this variant of Mesa County is that the younger population is at increased risk of being infected,” said Karen O’Brien, director of public health for Delta County, in the press release.

“Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent disease and the spread of this virus. If you are not fully vaccinated, please take these precautions: Avoid crowds and keep your distance from others, this virus and variant strain is very contagious and is spread primarily through respiratory droplets when someone is talking, coughing or sneeze; wearing a mask in indoor public places, wherever social distancing is not possible, and when required by federal or other regulations; and, wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

“Please help our community by taking these important steps to stop the spread of this deadly virus.”

Vaccination is an effective way to prevent disease and the spread of variants.

“We’re approaching another big holiday weekend, and with only 37% (35% fully vaccinated) of eligible people vaccinated in Delta County, we are concerned about another big spike later in July,” Delta County Administrator Robbie LeValley said.

“Our greatest concern has always been to prevent our hospital from being invaded by cases of COVID-19; we are seeing these numbers increase, and it is worrying.

Unvaccinated residents are at a higher risk of becoming ill with the Delta variant and are advised to get vaccinated as soon as possible. As of March 1, 2021, Delta Health has recorded 45 hospitalizations related to COVID-19; 42 of them were unvaccinated individuals.

Long-term care facilities located in counties where the COVID-19 Delta variant is emerging are required to follow strict guidelines from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This includes improved testing procedures for all staff and residents of the facility.

Those who have not been vaccinated should visit montrosecountyjic.com for a list of places to receive a COVID vaccine.

In Delta County, appointments can be made at:

• Delta County Department of Health – 970-874-2165;

• Delta Health Internal Medicine – 970-874-7668;

• Delta Health Family Medicine – 970-874-5777;

• Delta Health West Elk Clinic – 970-872-1400;

• River Valley Family Health Center – 970-874-8981;