Delta, a newer strain of the COVID-19 virus, has drawn intense attention. Many reports link this variant to the surge of positive cases in India and describe it as more transmissible and potentially more severe. In Indonesia, delta variant detections have appeared across several regions. During these clusters, numerous children were found to be infected with Delta. Is the delta variant COVID-19 really more likely to affect children?

Understanding the Delta Variant and Its Transmission in Children

The Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus, known as B.1.617.2, was first identified in India in December 2020. It subsequently became the dominant strain among positive cases in both India and the United Kingdom. According to WebMD, within six months Delta had reached 74 countries and rapidly overtook the Alpha variant in many of them.

Experts widely consider Delta to be more transmissible than Alpha. One infected individual is estimated to be able to pass the virus to about 6–8 other people nearby.

Delta is also viewed as more contagious among children and adolescents. UK data suggest that children and adults under 50 face roughly a 2.5-fold higher risk of infection. In New South Wales, among 30 documented COVID-19 cases, a larger proportion of children was identified than in earlier clusters.

So far, researchers have not pinpointed a single primary reason why Delta appears more contagious in children. Some suspect that mutations in the variant’s proteins may allow easier entry into human cells, especially in younger people.

Other studies indicate that Delta’s mutations might help it bind more efficiently once it reaches human cells. As a result, the variant can infect more people and may evade elements of the body’s immune defenses more easily.

Another strong possibility is the lower COVID-19 vaccination coverage among children to date, which increases susceptibility of children to Delta variant infectin. In Indonesia, guidance from IDAI and the Ministry of Health had not recommended COVID-19 vaccination for children at the time referenced.

How Can We Protect Children from the Delta Variant of COVID-19?

In essence, prevention steps for children mirror those used broadly against COVID-19. While vaccination recommendations for children may be limited, parents can support their children's immune system by providing a balanced diet, encouraging regular physical activity, and ensuring them to get good rest.

It is also important to apply the 5M health protocols: wearing masks, washing hands with soap, maintaining distance, avoiding crowds, and outdoor places. Limiting trips outside the home, especially to crowded settings with poor ventilation is just as crucial.

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