admin Tue, 09/07/2021 - 18:18Don't miss the recent presentation on the COVID-19 Delta Variant, presented by Dr. Leslie Fang. Recording expires on September 17th.By DOCS Incisor Writing StaffOn Wednesday, September 1st, Dr. Leslie Fang presented the most recent installment to his popular webinar series, "The Fast and The Furious: Delta Variant Update, COVID-19 and The Dentist." Dr. Fang loves to riff on popular movie titles to name his presentations, and this one was easier to name than most."Wherever [the Delta Variant] goes, it's chaos and everything blows up." Increased Transmission RatesThe Delta Variant is tearing a deadly path through the U.S. As Dr. Fang illustrates during the webinar, research shows the Delta Variant as 300 to 1,000 times more transmissible than the original strain. With so much in the air, it weakens the effectiveness of our established safety protocols, such as social distancing and air space.Other concerning factors include asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission, as well as an increase in children getting infected and spreading the virus. The new variant appears to fuse with human cells faster and more effectively."It's a hostile takeover of the other strains," explains Dr. Fang.*/ /*-->*/ /*-->*/Vaccine BreakthroughsThere have been breakthrough cases, as the vaccinated are capable of passing on the Delta variant even if they're asymptomatic and have milder cases. As recently as July, a report showed a resurgence of SARS-CoV-2 infections in highly vaccinated health system workforce members. Data from Israel (June 2020 to July 2021) shows a progressive decline in efficacy against infection after as little as five months, symptomatic or otherwise. A third booster shot is necessary to get antibody numbers back up to where they should be. He also covers whether you should aim to get the same vaccine or a different one.What Can Dentists Do?Dr. Fang confirms that we're dealing with a completely different disease now than the original. He recommends increased mask use, ventilation, and vaccinations in dental offices. The unknown quantity is the unvaccinated patient, so a return to fogging may be necessary."Don't challenge the Delta Variant," he concludes. It's Not too Late to Watch the WebinarDr. Fang's webinar was recorded and is available for DOCS Members to watch on-demand and for free until September 17th. It is worth 2 CE credits. If you're a DOCS Member, you'll find the course here in your Dashboard. If you're not a DOCS Member, you can become a Trial Member for 60 days for just $1*. You'll get immediate access to Dr. Fang's webinar recording, as well as a plethora of other online courses and valuable benefits. Sign up to become a trial member here. The recording will expire on September 17th, so do not delay. *Restrictions apply. Trial Membership Offer is open only to individuals who have not participated in the Trial Membership program within the past two (2) years. After 60 days, the Trial Membership will upgrade to a Standard Membership at $49.95/mo for a one-year commitment. Refer to terms of service for details. Incisor TypeScience & HealthRecommended ReadingSubscribeButtonSubscribe To Newsletter*/ /*-->*/
