New Covid variant a cause of concern? What we know so far about 'delta plus' AY4.2 coronavirus

While the 'Delta Plus AY4.2' virus isn't traced in India, British scientists have indicated it may even be more transmissible than the delta strain. Here's all that is known so far about the new variant of the coronavirus.

WHAT IS 'DELTA PLUS' VIRUS?: The AY4.2 is a relative of coronavirus delta variant -- identified by British scientists in September, 2021. 

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM THE DELTA VARIANT? The scientists have indicated that the new AY4.2 variant may even be more transmissible than the delta strain.

IS IT FOUND IN INDIA? Seven cases of the variant was detected in Indore in a genome sequencing report released from the National Centre of Disease Control (NCDC). Among them, two were Army officers posted in the Mhow Cantonment, a media report said.

HOW FAR HAVE STUDIES PROGRESSED? AY4.2 has now been classed as a Variant Under Investigation (VUI) amid concerns of its increased growth rate, with experts warning it is a reminder that the pandemic is not over.

IS IT MORE DANGEROUS THAN DELTA VARIANT? While evidence is still emerging, so far it does not appear the new VUI causes more severe disease.

ARE VACCINES EFFECTIVE AGAINST AY4.2? No evidence has been found to show that the vaccines currently deployed are any less effective against delta plus virus.

WHAT IS THE SITUATION IN UK? In a recent report, UK officials said this variant makes up 6% of all analyzed COVID-19 cases in the country and is “on an increasing trajectory.”

SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED? “Delta is dominant, but delta is evolving,” according to experts.The more the virus circulates, the greater chances it has to mutate.