• Published on: Aug 03, 2021
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Covid Expert Online

Covid Delta Variant: Virus Is Changing And We Need To Change Too!

  • WhatsApp share link icon
  • copy & share link icon
  • twitter share link icon
  • facebook share link icon

Delta Variant: Virus is changing and we need to change too!

The entire world is changing its overall strategy on the coronavirus pandemic this week. Masks are back, vaccine mandates are looming, and officials have sounded more worried than they have in months. Employees must wear a mask throughout the day at work while also keeping distance from others and submitting to a virus test once per week for safety reasons driving these changes as two factors: The large number who remain unvaccinated due to fears about vaccines' health effects combined with Delta variant's rapid spread across Europe over recent weeks which forces authorities around the world into immediate action against disease threat."

The Delta variant, originally known as B.1-617.2 has been around since last year but in recent months it's become the fastest spreading virus of all time according to many experts and scientists who are researching this issue more now than ever before. The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have also said that COVID-19 cases have increased over 300% nationally from June 19th to July 23rd along with parallel increases in hospitalizations and deaths are driven by the highly transmissible B: 1 617 2 delta variant which is one of a few reasons why they're so concerned about this new strain because there doesn't seem like any way we can stop or cure it yet if at all.

The Delta variant, originally known as B.1.617.2, has been around since last year but in recent months it's become speedily dominant with an 80% share of newly diagnosed cases across the US according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC says there have also been "parallel increases" in hospitalizations and deaths which are being driven by this new highly transmissible strain - COVID-19 or what is now better described as the Delta infection

Let's understand what the Delta variant is: a virus that has been around since late last year but in recent months it has become speedily dominant in many countries. It accounts for more than 80% of newly diagnosed cases.

The Delta variant is more transmissible in some studies, but not all. One CDC document indicates the Delta variant to be as contagious as chickenpox with each infected person infecting a few others. This difficult number to check because it requires much testing which has yet been done

The Delta variant is more transmissible than traditional coronavirus, but we don't know by how much. The CDC estimates that the new virus might be about 60-200% as contagious as chickenpox with each infected person infecting eight or nine others on average while a typical case of common cold only has an infection rate of two other people per affected individual. One paragraph from one CDC document indicates that this number could even be higher and since it's difficult to determine exact statistics without comprehensive testing, there are multiple possible outcomes for these estimations.

In a recent presentation, the CDC has noted that vaccines prevent more than 90% of severe diseases but may be less effective at preventing infection or transmission. However, if you're vaccinated with one of two currently approved COVID-19 mRNA vaccine brands (Pfizer and Moderna), then evidence suggests they are highly effective against hospitalization and death for various strains such as Alpha (B.1.1.7) Beta (B 1/351), Gamma( P 1 ), Delta( B/617).

 The presentation notes that vaccines are less effective at preventing infection or transmission and sometimes can lead to breakthrough outbreaks in communities despite vaccination. To help combat these effects, the site also noted Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective for many strains of measles including Alpha (B.1.1), Beta (B2) Gamma (P), Delta B(2).

A recent study has shown that the effectiveness of vaccines against certain variants may be lower than previously anticipated. The CDC is urging for ongoing monitoring to ensure appropriate vaccination strategies are developed and implemented with these new findings in mind.

Data suggest that the vaccine is less effective against confirmed infection and symptomatic disease caused by variants of influenza. Ongoing monitoring should be done to ensure that vaccines are still as effective in fighting off Delta variant though lab tests indicate immune response generated should cover it.

Delta has a unique set of mutations that may allow it to evade the human immune system and be more efficient in infecting cells. Delta's changes are limited to its receptor-binding domain, which allows for tight connections with the host cell while also helping this virus escape detection by hiding from our body's natural defenses like antibodies. One change is believed to help make these bonds tighter--making us sicker faster!

The delta virus has at least three mutations on a structure that is called the receptor-binding domain--the part of the disease-causing agent responsible for docking into human cells it infects. It may help evade detection by our immune system, and one mutation, in particular, could make it bind more tightly to infected cells.

Read Blog
Desk Plants

Importance of Hydration for Organs: How Water Keeps the Body Functioning

Water is the most essential nutrient for human survival, yet it is often the most neglected. Every cell, tissue and organ in the body depends on adequate hydration to function properly. The importance of hydration for organs becomes clear when we understand how even mild dehydration can disrupt critical physiological processes.

In India’s climate, with high temperatures and humidity in many regions, dehydration risk is especially high, making conscious hydration a daily health priority.

 

Why Water Is Vital for the Human Body

The human body is made up of approximately 60 percent water. This water:

  • transports nutrients and oxygen
     

  • regulates body temperature
     

  • removes waste products
     

  • supports metabolic reactions
     

Without adequate hydration, organ systems begin to struggle.

 

Hydration and Kidney Health

The kidneys are among the most hydration-dependent organs.

Proper hydration:

  • helps kidneys filter blood efficiently
     

  • flushes out toxins and waste
     

  • reduces risk of kidney stones
     

Chronic dehydration forces kidneys to concentrate urine, increasing strain and long-term damage risk. According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, dehydration is a major contributor to kidney stone formation in India.

 

Brain Function and Hydration

The brain is highly sensitive to hydration levels.

Even mild dehydration can cause:

  • headaches
     

  • difficulty concentrating
     

  • memory issues
     

  • irritability
     

Studies published in the Lancet show that dehydration negatively affects cognitive performance and mood, even before thirst becomes noticeable.

 

Heart and Circulatory System

Hydration plays a critical role in cardiovascular health.

Adequate water intake:

  • maintains blood volume
     

  • supports smooth circulation
     

  • reduces strain on the heart
     

Dehydration thickens blood, making the heart work harder and potentially increasing the risk of low blood pressure, dizziness and cardiovascular stress.

 

Digestive System and Hydration

Water supports digestion at every stage.

It helps:

  • break down food
     

  • absorb nutrients
     

  • prevent constipation
     

Chronic low water intake is linked to digestive discomfort, bloating and poor gut motility.

 

Liver Function and Detoxification

The liver relies on water to:

  • metabolise nutrients
     

  • detoxify harmful substances
     

  • support metabolic balance
     

Inadequate hydration slows detoxification processes and increases metabolic strain.

 

Muscle and Joint Health

Muscles and joints contain significant water content.

Hydration:

  • prevents muscle cramps
     

  • supports joint lubrication
     

  • reduces injury risk
     

Dehydrated muscles fatigue faster and recover more slowly.

 

Skin as an Organ and Hydration

The skin is the body’s largest organ.

Adequate hydration:

  • maintains skin elasticity
     

  • supports barrier function
     

  • reduces dryness and irritation
     

While water alone is not a cure for skin problems, chronic dehydration worsens skin health.

 

Hydration and Immune Function

Water supports immune health by:

  • enabling transport of immune cells
     

  • aiding removal of toxins
     

  • supporting lymphatic circulation
     

WHO recognises hydration as a foundational element of immune system support.

 

Effects of Dehydration on Multiple Organs

Dehydration affects the body systemically.

Common effects include:

  • fatigue
     

  • dizziness
     

  • reduced urine output
     

  • dark-coloured urine
     

  • dry mouth and eyes
     

Severe dehydration can lead to organ failure if untreated.

 

Why Dehydration Often Goes Unnoticed

Many people confuse thirst with hunger or fatigue.

Risk factors include:

  • busy work schedules
     

  • excessive caffeine intake
     

  • high temperatures
     

  • inadequate fluid intake
     

By the time thirst is felt, dehydration has already begun.

 

Hydration Needs Vary by Individual

Water requirements depend on:

  • age
     

  • body size
     

  • physical activity
     

  • climate
     

  • health conditions
     

General guidelines suggest 2–3 litres daily for adults, but individual needs may vary.

 

Hydration and Chronic Disease Prevention

Proper hydration supports prevention of:

  • kidney disease
     

  • urinary tract infections
     

  • constipation
     

  • heat-related illness
     

NITI Aayog and WHO highlight hydration as a basic preventive health measure.

 

Best Practices for Staying Hydrated

Effective hydration strategies include:

  • drinking water regularly throughout the day
     

  • increasing intake during heat or physical activity
     

  • consuming water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables
     

  • limiting sugary and caffeinated beverages
     

Consistency matters more than quantity in a single sitting.

 

Signs You May Need More Water

Watch for:

  • frequent fatigue
     

  • headaches
     

  • dry skin
     

  • reduced urination
     

  • poor concentration
     

These are early indicators of dehydration.

 

Role of Preventive Health Awareness

Preventive healthcare focuses on simple daily habits.

Hydration:

  • costs nothing
     

  • supports every organ
     

  • reduces disease risk
     

Small habits deliver large long-term benefits.

 

When to Seek Medical Advice

Consult a healthcare professional if experiencing:

  • persistent dehydration symptoms
     

  • kidney or urinary issues
     

  • dizziness or fainting
     

  • chronic fatigue
     

Underlying conditions may require medical evaluation.

 

Conclusion

The importance of hydration for organs cannot be overstated. Water supports kidney filtration, brain function, heart circulation, digestion, immunity and overall metabolic balance. Even mild dehydration disrupts organ performance and increases health risks over time. In busy modern lifestyles, consciously prioritising daily hydration is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect vital organs and maintain long-term health. Consistent water intake is not just a habit—it is a foundation for organ health and wellbeing.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Hydration and Kidney Health Studies
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Water Intake and Health Guidelines
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Nutrition and Lifestyle Data
  • Lancet – Hydration, Cognitive Function and Organ Health Research
  • NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare and Lifestyle Recommendations
  • Statista – Global Hydration and Health Trends

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download
call icon for mobile number calling and whatsapp at secondmedic