Maricopa County health experts expect the Delta Variant to increase in Arizona

Delta Variant causing COVID cases to increase

County health experts are expecting the Delta Variant to spread fast in Arizona and in some states.

PHOENIX - We've seen a couple surges with the coronavirus, and now there are concerns that another could be on the way. The so-called "Delta Variant" is behind it, causing cases to increase again in more than a dozen states.

The Delta Variant is growing at a fast rate around the country and county health experts are expecting it to increase in the next few months.

Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine, Infectious Disease Specialist with Maricopa County, says the strain in May was 3% and June was 19%.

MORE: Coronavirus in Arizona: Latest case numbers

"We know in the U.S the Delta strain is the dominant strain in the U.S, we expect to see more and more of the Delta strain circling here in the county," said Sunshine.

MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code

In the Valley, a long term facility is experiencing an outbreak, and this illustrates how fast the Delta Variant can spread. The county has not released the location.

"We really need to be prepared to see more and more of the Delta strain circulating the best way to do that is be fully vaccinated," said Sunshine.

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Monitor your health daily