If you haven’t been vaccinated against COVID-19, the time is now.

The delta variant of the virus is more contagious and more severe than its predecessor, according to medical professionals, including Dr. Akram Sadaka, director of public health at Naval Health Clinic Patuxent River. Even young, healthy individuals are at risk of serious illness if they aren’t vaccinated, he said.

The delta variant is 225% more transmissible than all other variants of the coronavirus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Almost everyone who has been hospitalized or died from the variant has one thing in common: they are unvaccinated.

“Being young and healthy is not an excuse to avoid the vaccine even if you feel like Superman or Superwoman,” said Dr. Sadaka. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from this deadly virus.”

The available vaccines have proven 94% effective among vaccinated Sailors and Marines.

Naval Health Clinic Patuxent River has a ready supply of the Pfizer vaccine, which is available to any Department of Defense-eligible beneficiary age 12 or older. Patients do not need to be enrolled at the clinic to receive the vaccine. Walk-ins are not accepted, but same-day appointments are often available.

The Pfizer vaccine requires two doses administered 21 days apart.

Positive cases of COVID-19 are up 146% in St. Mary’s County. Symptoms include fever, nausea, shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, and congestion or runny nose.

Getting vaccinated is an easy and free way for Sailors to protect themselves, their families and their shipmates, said Dr. Sadaka.

“Sailors work shoulder-to-shoulder to defend our country, and being unvaccinated threatens their ability to execute the mission,” said Dr. Sadaka. “Vaccination ensures your health and your readiness.”

The delta variant has contributed to a 400% increase in cases nationwide since June 20 and is attacking and hospitalizing young populations at an alarming rate, Rear Adm. Bruce Gillingham, U.S. Navy surgeon general and chief of the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, said in a recent video message.

“This is an epidemic of the unvaccinated that is preventable,” he said. “Bottom line: if you are unvaccinated, you are at risk. Take responsibility and take immediate action. See your healthcare provider to discuss any concerns. Get vaccinated. The benefits of being vaccinated are proven and clear.”

The available vaccines have proven 94% effective among vaccinated Sailors and Marines. The Secretary of Defense announced Aug. 9 that he intends to make the vaccine mandatory for all service members no later than mid-September.