The new COVID-19 Delta variant of the coronavirus is sweeping the country. Mask mandates are being re-instituted and the vaccine is being urged more than ever before. COVID cases and hospitalizations have been surging by double digits. The new Delta variation snakes its way through all 50 US states. Experts are warning this new ultra-contagious virus could be the most serious you’ll ever catch in your life. It is impacting everything from elementary schools to big corporations like Apple, and millions of lives and families.

Here’s everything you need to know…

Fast Rising COVID Infection Rates, Hospitalizations & Deaths Due to Delta Variant

The CDC has reported a 36% increase in hospitalizations and a 26% increase in COVID deaths across the United States. This new ‘Delta’ strain of the coronavirus may be the reason.

Other countries, like the UK (United Kingdom), are reporting an enormous surge in COVID cases. This is potentially stalling or leading to a reversal in lifting coronavirus restrictions.

See a more detailed breakdown of the spread of the Delta variant, its origins, and impact on our blog.

What’s Different About the COVID-19 Delta Variant Strain?

The most notable issue with the COVID-19 Delta strain is that it is an evolved, hyper-contagious version of COVID-19.

This new strain is adapting and learning to become more infectious. Some began to think it was safe to leave their face masks at home, venture out to eat, or travel out of state again. We are yet again facing a high risk of infection.

Authorities warn that the vast majority of people will get COVID with this new strain, and the WHO explained that even vaccinated people shouldn’t feel safe against it.

The potential danger of this situation is serious. Therefore, imminent action from our current white house administration is crucial.

Social Media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are taking the lead. They are adding posts to users’ feeds to create awareness about the new Delta strain and blocking comments and text messages which discourage vaccination.

Not surprisingly, News 4 Jax reports that the five states with the most infections of the COVID-19 Delta variant have above-average vaccination rates.

Overcapacity in Hospitals

At the beginning of the pandemic, lockdowns and restrictions were put in place to avoid overwhelming hospitals, and the Delta variant may be tipping us over that edge.

The Director of Infection Prevention at UF Health Jacksonville reported that their hospital emergency room is full, and they are seeing a 7-8% increase in patients each day.

As hospitals become more and more overwhelmed, some medical centers are yet again choosing to reduce ‘elective’ procedures. Unfortunately, this can lead to the worsening of other prevalent health problems.

Who Needs to Keep Wearing a Mask?

Counties like Los Angeles and Las Vegas have already begun reinstating mask mandates for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

Even Apple called off its plan to allow employees to return to the office.

The former head of the FDA recently told CBS News that “this is the most serious virus you can get in your lifetime.” Therefore, both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Dr. Fauci recommend all children ages three and up wear masks as schools reopen this fall; even if they received both doses of the vaccine.

The current COVID vaccine, unfortunately, does not protect against the new Delta variant. Because of this, some vaccine manufacturers are considering developing a third vaccine dose.

Since Delta variant infected persons are ultimately at higher risk of hospitalization and death, it is important that all persons, vaccinated or not, continue to wear a mask.

Quality Face Masks Have Never Been More Important

Face masks continue to be the most effective form of protection from this new strain of COVID.

Former FDA head, Gottlieb says it is important for people to invest in high-quality face coverings such as n99 mask . He explains, “Quality of the mask is going to make a difference with a variant that spreads more aggressively as Delta does. People are more contagious and exude more virus.”

Unfortunately, even people who continue to wear face masks often choose fashion masks with non woven fabric. Repurposed clothing, accessories, and simple fabrics are not effective at filtering out the virus. This may not have been as big of an issue with the low transmission rate variants of coronavirus but with the new Delta variant, these masks will create serious risk.

There is a huge difference between the masks mentioned above and legitimate particulate respirator masks. The N95 mask is designed and tested to filter at least 95% of virus particulates in the air. There is also the superior filtering for those who want even more protection.

Look for the CDC-recommended and NIOSH certified N99 and N95 masks which have official approval numbers.

Summary

The Delta variant is a new hyper-contagious strain of COVID. The data shows that it is dramatically accelerating both hospitalizations and deaths. Thus, hospitals are becoming overwhelmed and are running out of room for new patients.

Even fully vaccinated individuals are being warned that they are not safe from this strain of the virus. Experts state that quality masks are going to make all the difference in being protected.

Now is the time to reload your stock of quality N95 masks before they sell out. Even if you are a medical professional, or are in a profession that requires dust masks, it is vital to ensure you have enough of a supply to weather any pending shortages.

How Do I Choose the best Fireplace for my Home?

The question “How do I choose a fireplace for my home?” Is one that has popped repeatedly in my head over the many years. The reason I am asking this question is that I am not fond of how outdoor fireplaces appear and often I am unable to see why someone would want to purchase one. Although wood and brick fireplaces may not seem appealing to many people There are a few things to think about when looking for outdoor fireplaces. 

For instance, Relevance is very important when it comes to fireplaces. There are numerous brands to choose from and each has its own distinct features. There are ceramic-based fireplaces which add color to your home however there aren’t any log fireplaces with firewood burning. With all the options there, you must look at what the particular model will do for you before deciding on it.

What are some great features of fireplaces?

The appearance is another crucial aspect to be considered. The appearance of brick and wood fireplaces can be quite elegant but concrete fireplaces are more basic and functional. Select the kind of fire you’d like to have – one that gives off warmth and a beautiful appearance or something that simply is attractive. You could consider adding a mantel piece to  the design of your fireplace if have large living spaces you would like to showcase.

You’ll also need to add some decorative elements for your fireplace. I generally avoid the baseboard type, as they tend to be flimsy and don’t have much capacity for heat, however they can give a distinct aesthetic to your space. If you’re going for an authentic appearance perhaps you’d like to consider the addition of a mantel to your fireplace’s baseboard. Otherwise, consider adding accessories like a hearth rug or ornamental piece. You don’t want your fireplace to look like something out of a horror film!

What are the various types of fireplaces? 

Another thing to think about is the substance from which the fireplaces are built. The most popular kinds of wood for fireplaces are redwood, cedar and pine. While these materials are among the most durable but they also come with the most expensive. If you’re searching for a lower-cost option that is not only attractive, but also affordable you should consider bamboo fireplaces.

The final thing to think about when trying to figure out which fireplace for my home is the design of the fireplaces. Many people prefer square fireplaces. However, if square isn’t a good fit for your space, try seeking out round fireplaces. No matter what type of fireplace you decide to choose, make sure that it’s sturdy and has adequate ventilation.

What are the latest trends in fireplaces?

Not to be left out the design of fireplaces is essential. While aesthetics are crucial however, functionality is equally important. If you are looking to install the fireplace in your home that blends with the surroundings, you should look for fireplaces that have clean lines and sleek designs. Forms of fireplaces that are rounded, graceful, or simple can make your house blend into the environment better. It is possible to create a modern appearance by choosing fireplaces which are unique or geometric.

These tips can assist you in choosing the perfect fireplace for your home. Remember to focus on the look, ventilation and the material used in the fireplaces. Also, you should consider the sizes, shapes and designs of fireplaces. After you have considered all of these aspects you should have no problem choosing the perfect fireplaces for your home.

The Latest Trends in Plastic Surgery

Fat transfer and face surgery are two of the most popular treatments, according to plastic experts. Plastic surgery is becoming increasingly fashionable. Americans increasingly seek cosmetic treatments and augmentations, says the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. According to the ASPS, 17 million surgical operations and less invasive treatments, such as laser hair removal and chemical peels, were performed in 2017. Breast augmentation remained the most popular operation for the third year in a row, with over 290,000 procedures performed.

The recently revealed data also shows that the number of cosmetic procedures focusing on the face is increasing.In addition, for the first time, a new form of cosmetic surgery appeared on the popular list.
Though the term “plastic surgery” conjures up images of chemical fillers, silicone breast implants, and injectable artificial components, the ASPS study indicates that patients prefer a more “natural” element in their “plastic” surgery: fat. In 2016, the number of minimally invasive cosmetic fat injections rose by 13%.
Furthermore, fat grafts in the buttocks were more popular last year, with a 26% increase. Breast augmentations using fat injections, on the other hand, experienced the most dramatic gain, with a 72 percent increase in one year.

“Liposuction is a technique used by plastic surgeons to remove excess fat from a patient’s belly. Then inject it into other regions to lift and rejuvenate them, such as the face, buttocks, and breast. “Dr. Arian Mowlavi, @drlaguna, a private practice plastic surgeon at The Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Institute in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, California, explained. 
Newer operations concentrate on eliminating fat in less intrusive methods, and many of them are less expensive. More unique procedures might explain the growing popularity of fat transfer. Of course, a BBL is still the most popular fat transfer treatment.

While some people want to transfer fat from one region to another, others want to get rid of all fat. With almost 235,000 treatments, liposuction ranked second on the list of most frequent plastic surgeries.