First Case of ‘Delta Plus’ Variant (AY.1) Confirmed in Nueces County

Patient has Fully Recovered

City of Corpus Christi seal, Public Health logo and County of Nueces seal

CORPUS CHRISTI TX – The Corpus Christi – Nueces County Public Health District has received notification from the Department of State Health Services of the first case of the Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 in Nueces County.

The patient is a female between the ages of 50 and 60 and has fully recovered from the virus. The patient was fully vaccinated when she later became ill in late July. She was tested and found to be a breakthrough case, and a specimen was sent off at the request of the physician for Geno-sequencing to determine if she had the delta variant. The patient reported no close contacts or household positives and was isolated at home for quarantine when she developed symptoms. 

According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the SARS-CoV-2 AY.1 variant is related to the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant. It is classified as a “variant of concern” because it is much more easily spread than the original virus. It causes more severe illness, which is more likely to lead to hospitalizations.

While the Delta Plus variant is relatively new, early evidence indicates that the currently approved vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson) still provides a high degree of protection against infection by the Delta Plus variant. “Breakthrough” infections of those vaccinated are possible, but symptoms have generally been milder and hospitalizations less frequent compared to those who are not vaccinated, such as in this case.

It typically takes two weeks after vaccination for the body to build protection (immunity) against the virus that causes COVID-19. You are not fully vaccinated until two weeks after the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine. Residents are highly encouraged to get fully vaccinated.

All Nueces County residents must make every effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. Here are Public Health strategies we should all be following:

  • Individuals that are not fully vaccinated should still wear a mask in public (including children).
  • Individuals that have not gotten their second shot of a two-dose series should do so.
  • Fully vaccinated individuals that are immunocompromised should wear a mask in public.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Don’t go to work sick.
  • Get vaccinated as soon as eligible.

For media inquiries, contact Public Information Manager Robert Gonzales at 361-826-3233 or by email at robertg8@cctexas.com