Delta Variant Found in Chippewa County

CHIPPEWA COUNTY, Mich. – Chippewa County Health Department (CCHD) received a report from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services that the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant has been identified in Chippewa
County.

Delta is more than twice as contagious as previous variants, is driving the increase in cases in Michigan and nationwide, and can be transmitted even by vaccinated people. In order to stop the spread, CCHD is urging individuals to continue to take precautions against COVID-19, especially with most of the counties in Michigan now considered substantial or high transmission areas (CDC Transmission Indicators).

Precautions include:

• If you are not yet fully vaccinated for COVID-19, please do so as soon as possible. If you are severely immunocompromised schedule your third vaccine dose. For information on where to find a vaccination site go to: https://www.vaccines.gov/.
• Follow CDC recommendations for mask wearing, https://www.cdc.gov/.coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-
sick/about-face-coverings.html. Wear a mask around others if not fully vaccinated. Even if you are fully vaccinated, the safest choice is to wear a mask, especially in indoor settings when around people not in your household.
• Stay home when ill.
• Get tested for COVID-19 if you have been in close contact with others who are positive or are experiencing symptoms
(regardless of your own vaccination status). Testing locations can be found by visiting ww.michigan.gov/coronavirustest or by calling 2-1-1.
• Avoid crowded areas.
• Keep at least six feet apart from others.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Wash hands frequently.