Over the summer, many of us have been safely enjoying a more “normal” way of life — visiting with family and friends, traveling and catching up on all we missed last year. But as health officials continue to study new variants of the virus that causes COVID-19, we’re turning our attention to the delta variant in particular.

If you’re concerned you or a family member might have COVID-19, our partners at AdventHealth, with medical offices located inside the Center for Health & Wellbeing, are here to help give you answers through COVID-19 testing.

Facts to Keep in Mind

Viruses change constantly, and scientists have been watching for coronavirus variants since the beginning of the pandemic. The delta variant is now the predominant strain of COVID-19 in the U.S. — responsible for more than 80% of the infections — according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Studies Suggest Current Vaccines Protect Against the Delta Variant
The best protection against the delta variant is to get fully vaccinated. Vaccines are more than 90% effective at preventing you from being hospitalized due to the virus. If you’re eligible for the vaccine and haven’t gotten it yet, now is the time.

Those Who Aren’t Vaccinated Are Considered High-Risk
The delta variant can spread rapidly in groups of people who aren’t vaccinated. Children and adults who haven’t gotten the vaccine should keep practicing safety precautions like:

• Avoiding touching eyes, mouth and nose
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Disinfecting high-touch surfaces frequently
• Keeping a safe distance from others, especially indoors
Washing hands often
• Wearing a mask

How to Protect Your Family

It’s not clear yet if the delta variant causes more severe symptoms than other strains of coronavirus. If you have family members who aren’t vaccinated, stay alert about any symptoms they may have. So far, the most frequently reported symptoms for the delta variant are a headache, runny nose and sore throat.

If you or a family member have symptoms, we’re always nearby to help. The only way to tell for sure if you have a strain of coronavirus is to get tested. For more information on the selection of tests we offer or to reserve your spot in line, visit our site today.

Important Resources

We encourage you to use the following resources for your top COVID-19 questions and concerns:

• COVID-19 Vaccines: Vaccines are readily available at multiple locations: visit Vaccines.gov or Centra Care.
• COVID-19 Testing: Rapid COVID testing is offered at all Centra Care locations. Only go to the emergency room if you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing.
• Coronavirus Vaccine Resource Hub – AdventHealth launched a Coronavirus Vaccine Resource Hub and includes everything from FAQs, latest news and information on the AdventHealth vaccine team and our scientific committee. Visit www.CoronavirusVaccineFacts.com to learn more about the vaccine.

• If you have questions about COVID-19 or wonder if you should be tested, call the free AdventHealth Coronavirus Information Line at 877-VIRUS-HQ (877-847-8747). You can also find information at www.CoronaVirusSignsAndSymptoms.com.
• Donation Hub – For ways you can help, including sending notes of encouragement to our caregivers, as well as virtual volunteering opportunities, please click here.
• Mental Health – If you, your family, or colleagues, are in need of emotional help during this uncertain time, the Heart of Florida United Way 211 Information and Referral Crisis Line is connecting residents with information about available resources in the Central Florida community. Whether it’s finding out the location of the nearest food pantry or seeking information related to the virus, 211 Call Specialists are there to help. 
• Virtual Visit Options – AdventHealth Virtual Visits are available now for primary care, pediatrics and specialty care, as well as physical therapy. In the comfort of your home, you can speak with a medical provider by a video visit or phone call.