Could You Have Been Exposed to COVID-19 and Not Know It?

There are many unknowns about COVID-19, but one thing we know for sure is that the delta variant is highly contagious – much more so than earlier strains. With the delta variant now dominating across the country, many people may be wondering: “what’s the chance that I’ve have been exposed?” HuffPost talked to an infectious disease expert to find out. If you live in an area with a substantial or high transmission rate – and you have been out and about – doctors say you may have been exposed to COVID-19.

It’s important to keep in mind that there is a difference between exposure and infection. Because of the high rate of spread, epidemiologists say you probably have come in contact with COVID-19. If you were vaccinated, you will probably not become infected and if you do contract the coronavirus it should be mild symptoms that you might not even notice. However, we know that asymptomatic people can spread the virus, so if you think you were exposed you should get a COVID-19 test and isolate until you get your results.

Infectious diseases specialists seem to align in thinking that it’s just a matter of time until we are all exposed to COVID-19. With the delta variant being as transmissible as it is, COVID is becoming endemic. They say it’s something we will just have to live with, much like the flu. And just like the flu, the best way to protect yourself is by getting vaccinated.

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