Delta Variant Will Dominate Europe's COVID-19 Pandemic

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported on June 23, 2021, based on the available evidence, the SARS-CoV-2 Delta (B.1.617.2) variant of concern (VOC) is 40-60% more transmissible than the Alpha (Β.1.1.7) VOC and may be associated with a higher risk of hospitalization.

Based on the ECDC's estimated transmission advantage of the Delta variant and using modeling forecasts, 90% of new SARS-CoV-2 infections are projected due to this variant in the EU/EEA by the end of August 2021.

Since the ECDC’s most recent risk assessment was published on June 10, 2021, and given the expected future predominance of the Delta variant, the risk has increased for countries in all epidemiological situations.

'To achieve maximum protection in the shortest time possible, it is recommended that individuals at highest risk of severe outcomes for SARS-CoV-2 receive a second vaccine dose in the shortest possible interval following the administration of the first dose,' says the ECDC.