The COVID Delta Variant Has Officially Reached Missoula

You've probably seen the phrase "Delta variant" popping up in the news a lot over the last few weeks, and maybe you weren't totally clear on exactly what that means. Essentially, it's a new mutation of the coronavirus, an even more contagious strain than what the world has been dealing with for the last year-and-a-half.

And recently, the first case of the Delta variant in Missoula was officially confirmed by Missoula County. With COVID numbers beginning to rise again in several parts of the country, this is definitely something to keep an eye on.

The good news is, if you've already been vaccinated, you'll likely be fine - even if you do contract the virus, you'll likely get much less sick than you would be if you were unvaccinated. Right now, Missoula is leading the state in vaccination numbers - roughly 53% of the county is fully vaccinated, and 65% have gotten at least one dose. The ultimate goal is to get those numbers up to 75%.

If you're someone who is hesitant to get the vaccine, I'd recommend reading this article, which speaks to an Alabama doctor who gives her firsthand account of treating COVID patients that refused the vaccine - it's a heartbreaking read. But with all the misinformation out there, it's important to really understand how the vaccine works and why it's going to be the key thing that helps end this pandemic.

The vaccine's very easy to get right now too - the clinic in the former Lucky's in Missoula is accepting walk-ups, and the mobile vaccine clinic has been spotted at events all over town throughout the summer. You can find out more info right here.

LOOK: Answers to 30 common COVID-19 vaccine questions

While much is still unknown about the coronavirus and the future, what is known is that the currently available vaccines have gone through all three trial phases and are safe and effective. It will be necessary for as many Americans as possible to be vaccinated in order to finally return to some level of pre-pandemic normalcy, and hopefully these 30 answers provided here will help readers get vaccinated as soon they are able.

Why do cats have whiskers? Why do they meow? Why do they nap so much? And answers to 47 other kitty questions:

Why do they meow? Why do they nap so much? Why do they have whiskers? Cats, and their undeniably adorable babies known as kittens, are mysterious creatures. Their larger relatives, after all, are some of the most mystical and lethal animals on the planet. Many questions related to domestic felines, however, have perfectly logical answers. Here’s a look at some of the most common questions related to kittens and cats, and the answers cat lovers are looking for.

LOOK: What major laws were passed the year you were born?

Data for this list was acquired from trusted online sources and news outlets. Read on to discover what major law was passed the year you were born and learn its name, the vote count (where relevant), and its impact and significance.

Filed Under: Coronavirus Resources and Updates, covid, Delta variant, Missoula