The Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus is more contagious and spreads fast in children, says CDC. Besides, it may lead to severe illness in children and adults.

The typical symptom of the Delta variant is loss of smell and cough. In contrast, major symptoms include headache, sore throat, runny nose, and fever.

The Delta variant is more infectious than the previous strains of COVID-19. Delta COVID-19 cases have been reported in North America, the US, and other parts of the world, affecting children more and adults.

The Delta variant is a global concern. Experts report that this version of COVID-19 is more transmissible than earlier variants. Conversely, vaccinated people seem to have less severe symptoms than unvaccinated people.

It is still unclear to tell the exact difference in symptoms of the Delta variant and the previous variant of COVID-19. Yet more research is in progress to explore more.

Top Symptoms of Delta Variant in Children

The most common symptoms of Delta variant in children and teens are fever and cough, nasal symptoms, rash happening (rarely), and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Other symptoms that appear in children with the Delta variant include: 

• Chest tightness or pain
• Neck pain
• Exhaustion
• Abdominal (gut) pain
• Bloodshot eyes
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Low blood pressure
• Rash

Effects of Delta Virus on Kids

The Delta COVID-19 variant can have adverse effects on younger children who are not eligible for vaccines. There are no vaccines for children under the age of 12; it is causing concern that the Delta variant can be more infectious for children. Children are sensitive and have a weak immune system; therefore, they are more prone to catch symptoms of the virus.

Currently, children under 12 are not yet eligible for a vaccine against the Delta variant so there is a need to act on preventive strategies that reduce the drastic effects of the COVID-19 Delta variant.

Safety Tips for Children

• Teach your kids to maintain social distancing when they go out of home
• Ask them to wear masks when going to crowded places.
• Make sure your children wash their hands frequently.
• Keep your child in a ventilated place most of the time. Ventilation plays a key role since the virus spreads through respiratory droplets.
• You can follow public health advice to ensure maximum protection for your child.
• Make sure to talk to them about the lifestyle changes we are adopting and explain why it is necessary for their safety.

If your child is experiencing any symptoms of the Delta variant, you should take prompt action. So, get your child tested at an urgent care center for same-day results.

Patients can always book COVID-19 testing at AFC Urgent Care South Portland if they believe their child or someone else in their household has a COVID infection. Learn more on our website or contact us today to speak with our urgent care team!