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Doctors: Masks and social distancing crucial as COVID-19 cases skyrocket

As new information is released about the coronavirus and the Delta variant -- it can be confusing and overwhelming.

Posted Updated

By
Leslie Moreno
, WRAL multimedia journalist

As new information is released about the coronavirus and the Delta variant -- it can be confusing and overwhelming.

Doctors are learning more everyday about the Delta variant.

If you’re feeling lost and confused, you aren't alone.

“Everybody is uncertain right now. Should I wear a mask? Should I not do it here?" Timesha Akoni said.

Akoni said she has a baby and older adult in the family, so making sure she knows how to protect them and herself is top of mind.

"The vaccination that we've already received -- is that going to hold up with the Delta variant? What's going on with that?" Akoni questioned.

Dr. David Weber, with UNC Health, said yes, the only difference is that the Delta variant is more infectious.

When it comes to masks, Weber says a N-95 or a cloth mask will work as long as they are worn correctly.

"It needs to cover your nose and mouth and fit tightly," said Weber.

When it comes to transmission, Weber said it takes 15 minutes for delta particles to spread, however, the Delta variant has higher viral particles that make it more contagious.

"So, if you spend five with with them at 7 [o'clock], 8 [o'clock] and 9 o'clock ... that makes the 15 minutes," he added.

Weber said the bottom line is both that unvaccinated and vaccinated people should be wearing a mask indoors.He said the confusion is normal and having reliable sources of information will help. Weber said the misinformation out there can make all of this much more confusing. He says having trusted sources are important, which can included the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the state Department of Health and human Services and the World Health Organization.

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