There's growing concern on Long Island following the latest news that the highly contagious COVID-19 variant called Delta could make a surge in the fall.

Experts say the Delta variant, which originated in India, has now spread to more than 80 of countries and 41 states in the United States.

Doctors worry that as the number of people getting vaccinated decreases, the number of cases could increase.

"I think one of the biggest concerns is in areas where there isn't a high vaccination rate. You're going to start seeing the numbers start to increase especially if the Delta variant becomes more prevalent because of how quickly it can spread," says Dr. Frederick Davis, chair of the LIJ Emergency Medicine Association. "The vaccinations that we have currently are effective against this variant so those that are vaccinated are prevented from getting the severe illness that this could lead to and hospitalizations. Those that aren't vaccinated are at risk for getting this variant and unfortunately passing it on very quickly."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 52% of the total population in New York is fully vaccinated. The national number is around 45%.

"As we start worrying about other variants becoming more prevalent and leading to greater infections and greater hospitalizations, we hope that that will push more people to get the vaccination especially for those that are on the fence," says Davis.

Some Long Islanders say they are worried but feel a little better knowing they are vaccinated.

"I am worried," says Marilyn Wetzler, of Melville. "Me personally I feel a little bit safer that I did have the vaccination. It gives me more security."

Ray Merriweather, of Port Washington, says he hasn't been vaccinated but is thinking about it. He says he is still hesitant but knowing there is a more contagious strain may change his mind.

Last week, the CDC said the Delta variant was a "variant of concern," and the agency's director said she expects it'll become the dominant strain in the U.S.