The second wave of coronavirus disclosed the newly found mutation named Delta plus variant. Now, what it is and what to know about the delta plus variant?
Let us understand the recent delta plus variant in a better way.
What Is Delta Plus Variant?
Delta plus variant alias B.1.617.2.1 or AY.1 is the recent mutation of the covid-19 virus called K417N. This variant was first identified in Europe in March, subsequently escalating in other countries including the United Kingdom, India, Switzerland, Nepal, Poland, Russia, China and the US. The reports disclosed by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium shows that the delta plus variant may not be more transmissible than the preceding delta variant and the rage has yet to become obvious. The Delta plus variant is corresponding to the earlier endemic delta variant.
The new mutations are classified under three subtypes of the original delta variant. The three types of variants are AY.1, AY.2 and AY.3. The delta plus variant is quite identical to that of the existing original delta variant but with little alterations. However, the World Health Organization has recorded very few cases of the delta plus variant, still, proper precautions are to be taken care of.
Symptoms Of Delta Plus Variant
Many symptoms of delta plus variant have been identified in the people suffering from this virus. Proper knowledge and information regarding the symptoms are essential to help people to remain away from it and get a timely diagnosis of the disease.
The various symptoms are as follows;
- Cough
- Tiredness
- High temperature
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Skin rash
- Sore throat
- Loss of taste and smell
- Cold and sneezing
- Headache
- Diarrhoea
- Pain in chest
- Discolouration of toes and fingers
These are some common signs of delta plus variants which are to be born in mind. The person with noticeable symptoms must visit the doctor without a wait and undergo a covid test immediately. Correct examination coupled with the correct line of treatment will help you fight the deadly variant effectively.
Dissimilarities Between Delta variant and Delta Plus Variant
Delta variant is the variant of SARS-CoV-2 that was first seen in India and later swiftly reaching in other 90 countries most prevalent in the US and likely to develop in Europe. It is also called lineage B.1.617.2 of SARS-CoV-2. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acclaimed the Delta variant as the most transmissible among all the other variants of covid-19.
Whereas, Delta plus variant also called AY.1 is a new variant of the coronavirus, B.1.617.2 that consists of a new mutation that attacks our respiratory system more easily. This delta plus variant is considered more communicable in comparison to the original delta variant. Delta plus variant restricts the monoclonal antibody cocktail therapy which helps in producing antibodies in your body. So far, how this plus variant will alter the effectiveness of the vaccines is still unknown.
Effectiveness Of Covid Vaccines Against Delta Plus Variant
According to studies from the past, many health organizations claimed the covid-19 vaccines as a very effective measure in protecting yourself from the delta variant. But the recent survey shows there are very few reported cases of the delta plus variant as of now and it is stated that it is too quick to decide whether the vaccines are effective or not to confront the delta plus variant. The 1st case of delta plus variant was found in a 62-year-old woman who was fully vaccinated and already recovered from the covid-19 infection and so the efficacy of these drugs is questionable against delta plus variant. However, experts rigorously recommend getting vaccinations at the earliest as possible to immune yourself from the deadly virus.
Protection From Delta Plus Variant
Many guidelines and restrictions are suggested to follow given controlling the spread. The rules are as follow;
- Maintain social distancing
- Wear proper masks
- Wash your hand properly with soap
- Frequent sanitization of hands
- Disinfect the surface and things in use
- Do not Step out of the house if it is not that necessary
- Avoid crowded places
- Maintain respiratory hygiene
- Get yourself fully vaccinated
- Eat a healthy balanced diet
- Drink plenty of water
By strengthening all the measures carried out by the various health departments and speeding up the distribution of vaccination in the community will help us safeguard against the delta plus variant.
This is what you should know in general regarding what in particular to know about Delta plus variant?
Sudheendra is a passionate blogger for 8 years and holds a Degree in Journalism & Mass Communications. His writings particularly focus on health, medicine, diet & lifestyle. For him, everything that interlinks and relates to health & medical world entices him. His write-ups aim at educating people not by just giving facts but by infusing human touch.