Families flood local doctors to test for DELTA Variant
July 27, 2021

Local doctors are seeing a surge in positive COVID-19 tests as the fast-spreading DELTA variant sweeps its way through our community.   In just the last two weeks, the number of positive cases across the nation has jumped 250% compared to last month and the CDC predicts it is going to get much worse by the end of August.

Medical providers with American Family Care (AFC), a national healthcare network with a local clinic, are answering non-stop questions from patients right now about How to Dodge the Delta as well as the Scary Symptoms that signal you need to get in front of a doctor as soon as possible – and we are not just talking about losing your ability to taste or smell.

Scary Symptoms of Delta
• Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, like gasping for air or you cannot walk or talk without catching your breath.
• Constant cough that will not stop.
• Persistent pain in your chest.
• Too weak to stand, lightheaded feeling, feeling cold, all signs of low blood pressure.
• Inability to wake up or stay awake.
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking that is new or getting worse.

“The numbers tell the story, our network of more than 240 clinics has conducted tens of thousands of COVID tests in the last week.   This new strain of COVID is fueling a new rush of patients with DELTA variant symptoms through our doors,” explains Dr. Benjamin Barlow, chief medical officer of American Family Care.  “Unlike, 2020, this is now an illness that is preventable.  Research shows getting vaccinated is the number one way to dodge getting seriously ill – or dying – from the delta variant.” 


How to dodge Delta

Get vaccinated. The vast number of people who are testing positive for COVID now are unvaccinated.

Vaccines stops the virus that causes COVID-19 to move between people. The more the virus circulates the more opportunities it can transform itself and reduce the effectiveness of the vaccines that are in place.

Wear a mask.  Covering our mouth and nose can protect the spread of COVID-19.  This is especially important for children under the age of 13 who cannot get vaccinated at this time.

Stay six feet away from people who don’t live with you.    

Wash your hands often, use hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available.