Beware of the New Highly Infectious Covid-19 Delta Plus Variant: Caution Doctors
Pune: Just when the country was dealing with the second wave of Coronavirus, another dangerous variant, Delta Plus has led to fear in the minds of people. This latest and highly infectious Covid variant has spread to a dozen countries like India, the U.S., and the U.K leading to a large number of hospital admissions. Tests like? and adhering to Covid protocol can be helpful in dealing with delta plus variant.
The deadly Coronavirus broke out in the March of 2019, after which almost every country around the globe in complete lockdown. As the countries stopped functioning, economies were impacted and people struggled to maintain their well being. In 2021, people gained some hope after the mega vaccination drive was initiated all over the world. Unfortunately, new variants of COVID-19 started popping out to make the matter worse. Reportedly, according to NITI Aayog, India has registered 56 cases of the Delta Plus variant in 12 states till June 30. The central government last month declared the Delta Plus variant of the virus causing Covid-19 as a variant of concern (VOC) in India. The country was hit by the devastating second wave of Covid-19 and has now reimposed lockdowns owing to rising fears about this new variant.
Dr. Keerthi Prakash Kotla, Consultant Pathologist, Apollo Diagnostics, Pune said, “Delta Plus (B.1.617.2.1/(AY.1) is a new mutant strain of the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, that has emerged as a new threat in India. Delta Plus has been formed owing to the Delta acquiring a mutation called K417N in the spike protein. Delta Plus variant has increased transmissibility, stronger binding to receptors of lung cells, potential reduction in monoclonal antibody response, is highly infectious, causes more hospitalizations when compared to previous strains, and tends to invite severe diseases. All the people with flu like symptoms and fever should be tested for COVID19 through RTPCR and if positive should consult a physician immediately and take advice.
“Delta Plus variant is known to carry the symptoms of the delta variant and the beta variant. Cough, diarrhoea, fever, headache, skin rash, chest pain, breathing difficulties, nausea, poor appetite, and abdominal pain are some of its symptoms. The vaccines are effective when one is fully vaccinated. People should follow the Covid-appropriate protocol of masking, social distancing, and hand sanitizing. Steroids need to be taken at the right time and in the right dosage. Disinfect the frequently touched surfaces and avoid being around sick people. Stay home, stay safe!,” concluded Dr Mukesh Budhwani, General Physician Apollo Clinic Pune.
