Among babies 6 months and younger hospitalized for COVID, 90% of their mothers weren't vaccinated during pregnancy, leaving them vulnerable to severe infection.

Last year, the CDC's report had estimated vaccine effectiveness in South America was 51.9% against hospitalization among at-risk groups. A study by the same group looking at data from 2013 to 2017 estimated effectiveness was around 43% for fully vaccinated young children and 41% for older adults.

In addition to vaccinations, Shah emphasizes the importance of avoiding gatherings when you do not feel well and shares an anecdote about his family's plan to stay healthy.

Infections caused by the latest variant have symptoms including fever, chills, fatigue, cough, congestion and headache.