Albania has not yet shown any concerning wave of infections from the highly contagious delta variant, however, epidemiologist Ilir Alimehmeti warns that this might change in the upcoming weeks.

In an interview for Euronews Albania, the expert listed four reasons why Albania is not experiencing a large wave alike other countries.

Among the reasons listed he hints that not having direct contact with countries where Delta was the main strain, as well as the fact that many people have already passed the virus, hence potentially reaching some form of immunity.

Why is Albania not showing any concerning trends from Delta:

• The infection spread much later in Albania than it did with other countries that have more relations with India
• A large proportion already had COVID-19 and now have immunity
• Around 20% of the population is vaccinated
• The hot summer season decreases the spread of the infection

But the epidemiologist emphasizes that this might change in the upcoming weeks and urged for increased awareness.

“The increase in cases has been more rapid than the other waves, but it is also dropping more fastly and resembling more to a normal seasonal flu”, said Alimehmeti.

Regarding the COVID-19 vaccines, the epidemiologist urged citizens to get the jab but stressed that he is against the injection of little children while making it mandatory for students.

“It’s been only a few months that we observe the vaccines progress and it is different when we communicate the long-term risks to a 70-year old person than to a 17-year old”, explained the epidemiologist.