Delta Not More Deadly, but Very Contagious

Fernando Cuellar

With concern that the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus may now be circulating in Belize, people are wondering if this strain is even deadlier than one we have already experienced.  But health experts say that the symptoms brought on by the Delta variant is not greater in severity.  The concern, however, according to Doctor Fernando Cuellar, who appeared today on Open Your Eyes, is that the strain is much easier to transmit.

Dr. Fernando Cuellar, Intensive Care Specialist, Belize Medical Associates

“Variant means a mutation, a change in the original virus. And it is happening all over the world. So, why Belize would be the unique spot where it would not happen, you know? So, concerns came about, serious concerns came about when we had discussions with the Ministry of Health that something is happening. And unfortunately, over the past seventeen months we should have already put in pathways to identify variants quickly.”

Marleni Cuellar

“Why is the whole world concerned about the delta virus?”

Dr. Fernando Cuellar

“Because it is easier to transmit, Marleni. I mean, it is easy. The virus has mutated, it has changed. And, every virus does this. This is for COVID. Every virus does this. That is how they survive over the years. They smart, they are genetic material, they have all this thing in built in them. So, every year you must have a new flu vaccine because of the same reason. But, that is the way how viruses survive over hundreds and thousands of years. They do their own change. And, this change that happened is to ensure their survivability. The virus survives by changing and adapting. This virus does not need a lot of viruses to affect somebody else. It is more catching.”