Is the Delta plus variant of coronavirus dangerous? Here's all you need to know

As India limps back to normalcy, emerging from the deadly wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, the danger seems to be far from over.

The Delta variant of the coronavirus, scientifically known as B.1.617.2, is said to have further mutated into a new strain called the 'Delta plus' or 'AY.1' variant.

Here's everything you need to know about the Delta plus variant.

The Delta variant was first found in India and is believed to be behind the rapid surge during the second wave of the virus in the country.

VK Paul on delta plus – "it is not a variant of concern just a variant of interest."

The Delta plus variant, alternatively named B.1.617.2.1 or AY.1 variant was formed due to a mutation in the spike protein of the Delta variant, being called the K417N mutation.

Spike proteins are present on the surface of the virus and helps it enter the human body in order to infect cells.

Scientists have said that this mutation in the viral spike protein, seen in the Delta plus variant, makes it resistant to monoclonal antibodies cocktail, which has so far shown much promise in the treatment of Covid patients.

Also Read | Pfizer, AstraZeneca vaccines protect against Delta variant: study

Monoclonal antibodies are clones of an antibody that targets one specific antigen. They are artificially created in the laboratory and bind to the spike protein of the SARS-COV-2 virus, blocking the entry to the healthy cells and protecting the body from the same. India recently approved monoclonal antibody cocktails like Casirivimab and Imdevimab.

Does this mean that the Delta plus variant is more infectious or more transmissible?

Doctors have said that the variant’s resistance to monoclonal antibodies does not determine whether or not it is more infectious or transmissible.

What does the presence of the Delta Plus variant mean for India?

Scientists say there is no immediate cause for concern since the prevalence of this new variant is still low in India.

Experts say the quality and quantity of neutralising antibodies generated by an individual infected with the new variant is unlikely to be affected because of the mutation.

According to Public Health England, 63 Delta plus genomes have been identified so far, six of which are from India. There are 36 confirmed Delta plus cases in the UK and it accounts for around six per cent of cases in the US.

Delta plus cases around the world include cases in Canada, Germany, Portugal, Russia, Nepal and Japan.

Also Read | A single shot is 61% effective against Delta strain: Covid group chief