Around the world, there are different variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. So what is a variant? A variant is when the original SARS-CoV-2 changes structure or mutates. This is a normal process that happens to all viruses and bacterias.
Some of the viruses’ mutations are insignificant, but some worry scientists categorizing them as VOC, which is a variant of concern. It is labeled like this because compared to the Wuhan China variant, these new variants are more contagious, more dangerous, and do not only affect adults but also children.
There are two of these variants of concern circulating in Aruba, the UK variant and the Brazilian variant. According to experts, both of these variants are more contagious, and the one from Brazil is more dangerous.
In Aruba, at this moment, only 6.5% of our population is protected, meaning that the majority of the people are still vulnerable to the virus.
If we do not follow all the measures and rules set in place, with the two new variants in our midst, very quickly, Aruba could experience another outbreak of COVID-19 cases.
Those in isolation and quarantine must also follow all rules and take care of themselves and others. It is very important to call your doctor to test at the first signs of throat ache, fever, runny nose, or fatigue. This way, we avoid an outbreak in your family or at work.
It is also very important to vaccinate. The more people get vaccinated, the fewer people will get sick because of COVID-19, and the faster Aruba could recover. DVG will continue monitoring the situation of the new variants closely.
