Dr. Ying-Ying Goh, MD (Photo – cityofpasadena.net) Pasadena City Hall (Photo-ColoradoBoulevard.net)
Pasadena’s Director of Public Health and Health Officer, Dr. Ying-Ying Goh, issued a statement to the community regarding mask use and the Delta Variant.
By News Desk
Increasing reports about the Delta variant of the SARS-CoV2 virus as much more infectious and possibly causing more serious illness are very concerning. The CDC anticipates the Delta variant will be the predominant strain in the US in the next few months, and it has been identified in LA County. Initial evidence suggests that vaccination provides significant protection against illness from this variant, but much is still unknown and protection may be somewhat less than for prior variants.
It is best for Pasadena residents to protect themselves
Given this uncertainty, as scientists work to gather more information about this variant, it is best for Pasadena residents to protect themselves with those risk mitigation measures that we know are effective.
First, everyone should get fully vaccinated, and help connect their friends and family who are not yet vaccinated to a vaccine opportunity as soon as possible. Full vaccination appears to provide much greater protection against the Delta variant than a partial 2-dose vaccine series, so be sure to get both doses if receiving Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
Wear a mask in higher-risk situations
Second, wear a mask in higher-risk situations, such as when indoors in public places where you don’t know everyone’s vaccination status. This could include stores, gyms, events, etc.
Finally, remember that there are many people who are not yet eligible for vaccine (such as children under 12 years of age) and others whose immune systems might not be able mount a strong response to the vaccine. COVID-19 virus, including the Delta variant, poses more risk to unvaccinated individuals, so modify your activities and make choices to protect these people in your family or community.
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