LONDON: ‘Delta Plus’, a new variant of the COVID-19 virus, may be more easily transmissible than regular Delta, UK experts have deduced.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has put it higher up in their "variant under investigation" category, to reflect the possible threat involved. However, there is no evidence regarding the severity of symptoms caused being any worse and scientists are confident that the vaccines available should still be effective in immunizing people against the virus.
"Delta Plus" or AY.4.2 cases are increasing in frequency. The most up to date data suggests that from all cases recorded, 6 per cent are attributed to the Delta Plus variant.
Officials say there is some early evidence showcasing that Delta Plus might have an increased growth rate compared to other variants. Unlike Delta, however, it is not yet classified as ‘variety of concern’ - a category awarded to those variants with the most danger involved.
AY.4.2 is a side-shoot of Delta that has mutations affecting the spike protein, which is how the virus gets into our cells. These mutations have been observed in various other coronavirus deviations since the pandemic first began.
"The public health advice here is the same as always: Get vaccinated and avail the booster dose if you eligible for it.” said Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UKHSA
"Follow standard operating procedure (SOPs). Continue wearing masks in public and meeting people in well ventilated rooms. If symptoms surface, take a PCR test and isolate at home until you test negative." she reiterated.