Topline
Three U.S. senators who were vaccinated said they had tested positive for the virus Thursday. However, all three reported mild symptoms. Research suggests that vaccines may not be as effective in stopping the highly infectious Delta variant of the virus, but they can reduce the chance of severe illness and death.
WASHINGTON DC - 08/08: U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D.CO) steps down from the Senate floor... [+] after a round vote on 8/08/2021 in Washington, DC. Tonight, the Senate will vote on the amendments to the legislative text for the $1 trillion infrastructure bill. This is ahead of August recess. (Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images). Getty Images
The Key Facts
Representative Roger Wicker (R.-Miss.) spokeswoman. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) issued a statement saying that Wicker had tested positive for mild symptoms. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, stated that despite his office's strong coronavirus precautions (including a work-from home mindset and regular testing), he was still feeling mildly feverish Thursday morning.
Important Background
At Wednesday's briefing, Rochelle Walensky (director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) stated that data shows that the vaccines ability has decreased over time due to the rapid spread of Delta across the country. However, she said that the shots provide stable and highly effective protection against serious illness and hospitalization to those who have been vaccinated.
Tangent
All senators except three Sens. Ron Johnson (R-Wisc. Rand Paul (R.Ky.), and Mike Braun (R.Ind.). In a CNN poll conducted in May, 80% of respondents reported having been vaccinated.
Important Quote
The CDC advises that symptoms should be monitored for up to 14 days following exposure.
Big Number
7. This is how many breakthrough cases have occurred in Congress. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., said that he contracted the virus after being fully vaccinated. Graham and Sharice Davids (D.Kan.), also tested positive for the virus in August. Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) reported an infection in July, but did not say if he was vaccinated.
