The numerals in this illustration show the main mutation sites of the delta variant of the coronavirus, which is likely the most contagious version. Here, the virus’s spike protein (red) binds to a receptor on a human cell (blue). (Juan Gaertner/Science Source) By Ryan Briggs, WHYY News, August 4, 2021 Both Pennsylvania and New Jersey have so far been shielded from the worst outbreaks of the delta variant, unlike places like Louisiana and Florida, which have seen rampant spread and flooded hospitals. But experts, and new data, indicate the calm is unlikely to last long. The lessened spread locally, at least thus far, likely owes to generally higher vaccination rates in the northeastern United States and other complex factors, ranging from varying population density to tourism. Even so, Dr. Esther Chernak, director of the Center for Public Health Readiness and Communication at Drexel University, says rates are virtually guaranteed to continue to increase locally. Related COVID-19 news stories: Biden shows he’s ready to make drastic moves in Covid-19 fight — even if he’s not sure they’re legal For many, the belated realization that COVID will be ‘a long war’ sparks anger and denial Covid Live Updates: China Scrambles to Halt Delta as Outbreak Widens “It’s just beginning to be experienced in this area. I think we’re on the uptick here,” she said. “The issue with the delta variant is that it’s going to find the most vulnerable part of our community.” Both Pennsylvania and New Jersey are below the national case rate of 26 infections per 100,000 residents. However, there is also a noticeable disparity between the two states — with New Jersey seeing more cases thus far than the Keystone State, despite a higher vaccination rate. Although about 66% of residents in both states have received at least one vaccine shot, New Jersey has a higher portion of its population fully vaccinated at 59%, compared to 53% in Pennsylvania. Nevertheless, New Jersey is seeing new infections at a higher rate: about 11 per 100,000 residents, compared to 8 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania. The cases add up to a triple-digit case increase in both states over the last two weeks. Although death rates have generally lagged in infections and, nationally, elderly people have been vaccinated at higher rates, the increased contagiousness of the delta variant means that mass outbreaks would still be deadly. Why? Chernak credited a combination of factors — possibly even the Garden States’ famed beach tourism. Click to read the full story

New guidance for unvaccinated Delawareans: Get weekly testing By Cris Barrish, WHYY News, August 3, 2021 Gov. John Carney has been pleading for more Delawareans to get vaccinated against COVID-19, and so far 72.9% of adults have done so. But cases are rising at an alarming rate — nearly six times higher than just five weeks ago — and 99% of cases this year have occurred in unvaccinated people, a WHYY analysis has found. With fewer than half of residents ages 12 to 34 still unvaccinated, the governor on Tuesday delivered a new message: Get tested weekly. Beyond that recommendation, Carney and public health officials also want the unvaccinated to: Get tested 5-7 days after being exposed to someone with COVID-19. Isolate at home immediately if they develop symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Quarantine at home immediately if exposed to someone with COVID-19. The governor stressed that fully vaccinated people do not need to quarantine after exposure but to do so if they develop symptoms. Click to read the full story If you liked this post you’ll love our daily newsletter, EnviroPolitics. It’s packed with the latest news, commentary, and legislative updates from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware…and beyond. Don’t take our word for it, try it free for an entire month. No obligation.