August 19, 2021

Get the Facts and Get Vaccinated

"The Delta variant is here in Virginia, and it is hitting our unvaccinated population especially hard," said State Health Commissioner M. Norman Oliver, M.D, M.A. "We have a very effective tool to stop transmission of COVID-19: vaccination. There is no question that COVID-19 vaccination is saving lives and preventing and reducing illness." Oliver is urging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible. 

What is the Delta variant? 

The Delta variant of COVID-19 was first identified in India and is known as B.167.2. Delta is causing a spike in COVID-19 infections among unvaccinated people in Richmond. The Delta variant has become the dominant variant of the new coronavirus. There has been a recent spike in COVID infections in the state, and this uptick in cases has slowed down our return to normal life.

Is the Delta variant severe? 

The Delta variant replicates faster, spreads more easily, and evades the body's immunity mechanism. It causes more serious diseases in many people. According to World Health Organization, "it is the "fastest and fittest" variant yet. The Delta variant is twice as transmissible as the original strain of COVID-19". 

You are at a much higher risk for illness and death if you are unvaccinated. Those who are unvaccinated are:

  • At the risk of Covid-19 illness 
  • At the risk of giving Covid to family, friends, and co-workers
  • At the risk of Long Covid 
  • At the risk of hospitalization from Covid 
  • At the risk of death or spreading Covid and causing death

If you are not vaccinated, and your family is not vaccinated, we recommend you get vaccinated ASAP. All persons 12 and older in the USA can now be vaccinated. 

For more information about the Delta Variant, please click to read these recent news articles related to local COVID-19 Cases:

VDH Sees Significant Increase in Delta Variant

Delta variant: Should people in Virginia be concerned?

We know that healthcare can sometimes be confusing, and caring for a family member can be challenging. Our Director of Nursing oversees all care at every level, whether personal or skilled. Our RNs give our patients, and their family members access to insight regarding COVID-19 transmission, testing, and vaccination. If you have questions about the vaccines or any follow-up questions, feel free to ask us, and we will offer expert advice. 

BrightStar Care of Richmond provides award-winning 24/7 to hourly Private Duty Home Health Care and Medical Staffing services, including 24-hour care and support in independent and assisted living communities. We provide all levels of care, from companion services to skilled nursing and medical care, including COVID-19 care and screening. We proudly serve families and businesses in The West End, Glen Allen, Manakin Sabot, Chesterfield, Midlothian, Oilville, Richmond, Montpelier, and State Farm areas.

For more information about how Virgina's fight against COVID-19 and to learn more about our local team of caregivers, skilled healthcare professionals, and home health care support for local families and businesses, please Click Here.