COVID Excellent Story On Breakthrough Cases From Wall St Journal

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The discussion centers around the prevalence of COVID-19 breakthrough cases in the U.S., particularly in the context of the Delta variant. A Wall Street Journal article highlights that breakthrough cases remain relatively uncommon, even with Delta's spread. Concerns about the Delta variant are acknowledged, but the effectiveness of vaccines in preventing hospitalization and severe disease is emphasized, with estimates showing around 90% effectiveness. There is a recognition that many mild or asymptomatic cases may go unreported. The conversation also touches on the need for booster shots, with indications that they may be necessary six months after the second dose. The situation in New South Wales is noted, where despite strong lockdown measures, infections are rising, underscoring the ongoing challenge posed by unvaccinated populations. Vaccination rates in Australia are increasing, particularly among younger individuals, who are reportedly undeterred by the risks associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.
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I get the Audio of the Wall St Journal every day. They had a surprising and excellent story on breakthrough cases. The bottom line is the US is seeing very few - even with Delta. The full story is behind a paywall, but non-subscribers can view some of it here:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/as-delta-surges-covid-19-breakthrough-cases-remain-uncommon-11629199800

I am apprehensive about Delta. But maybe my worry is somewhat misplaced.

Thanks
Bill
 
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I'm not sure the headline should be about whether breakthroughs are common or uncommon, especially since the undercount on mildly symptomatic cases or asymptomatic cases may be large. The important point is that hospitalization or severe disease is still prevented with about 90% effectiveness, possibly higher (Israel preliminary estimates ~88-93%., UK estimates with 96% with 91-98% for the 95% confidence limits).
 
atyy said:
I'm not sure the headline should be about whether breakthroughs are common or uncommon, especially since the undercount on mildly symptomatic cases or asymptomatic cases may be large.
Yes. When I was at my GP clinic Monday getting my AZ second dose, she (my usual doctor was busy) was matter of fact - we all will need third booster shots 6 months or so after the second jab:
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021...tions-rise-in-us-as-cdc-to-recommend-boosters

This is fast turning into a pandemic of the unvaccinated. At the moment, things are getting terrible in NSW despite a strong lockdown:
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021...tions-rise-in-us-as-cdc-to-recommend-boosters

Vaccination, in AUS, is accelerating quickly - which of course, it should. Surprisingly the largest uptake of the AZ vaccine is amongst the young. It s reassuring they are not being scared by the .5 in a million chance of dying.

Thanks
Bill
 
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