Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 has become a cause of concern in India. The cases of this variant have been reported in parts of Maharashtra, Kerala and Bhopal. Recently, the central government has flagged the Delta Plus variant as a “variant of concern” so it is better to stay prepared. 

The difference between the Delta Plus variant and the COVID-19 Delta variant is that it is the mutated form of B.1.617.2 strain, and may pose more threat than the COVID-19 Delta variant. 

Here is everything you need to know about this variant and what the government says about it. 

Government’s statement on Delta Plus:

• It is believed to be the driving factor behind the second wave of COVID-19 
• The transmissibility has increased 
• It shows the potential of reducing monoclonal antibody response
• There is no evidence of its virulency 
• It has a strong binding capability to lung receptors 

Apart from India, cases of this variant have been reported in the UK, US, Portugal, Switzerland, Japan, Poland, Russia and China. 

Are vaccines effective against it?

As per the information given by the government, the vaccine is effective against it but more information is yet to be collected. 

So far, India has seen a decline in COVID-19 cases but due to the cases of the Delta Plus variant, the government of India has asked Maharashtra, Kerala and MP to take containment measures. India has reported 50,848 new COVID-19 cases and 1,358 deaths as of 23rd June.