Canada’s chief public health officer says officials are tracking four variants of concern, but Dr. Theresa Tam warns the Delta variant could make a possible fourth wave worse than first thought.

“The delta variant is also the most contagious variant observed to date, spreading an estimated 50 percent faster than the alpha variant,” said Dr. Tam. “While we must remain vigilant, especially for variants of reduced impact of vaccines a complete two dose series of COVID-19 vaccines provides substantial protection against variants of concern, including the Delta variant.”

The modelling is based on what’s happened in Britain, where the variant has proven more transmissible than others, and has caused more severe illness.

Data shows the number of infections and hospitalizations continue to fall across the country as more Canadians get vaccinated.