Delta Plus Virus | The New Covid Variant and its Impact

As we all know, COVID-19 has caused uproar in the whole world. From the first wave of COVID-19 (in 2020) to the second wave of COVID-19 (2021), India has come a long way. There is an increase in awareness and resources to control the cases. But maybe, our fight against the coronavirus is not finished yet. Yes, you read it right! Experts have identified another mutant, 'The Variant of Concern' named Delta Plus Virus.

When we talk about a variant of concern, that means it is more infectious and transmissible. It causes more admissions and more severity. 

What is Delta Plus Variant?

Delta plus is a new variant of SARS-CoV-2. It was first detected in India and gradually spread to the whole world. However, as of now, it is limited to small areas. Delta variant is still under investigation, and it is believed that it can be transmitted at a faster rate. GISAID (Global Science Initiative) has identified 63 genomes (set of genes present in the cell) of Delta Virus. It is seen that the spike protein (highly glycosylated and large type I transmembrane fusion protein) of the virus is responsible for its numerous mutations.

Delta Plus Virus Symptoms:

Delta plus variant is still under study, and experts are striving to differentiate between the symptoms caused by alpha and delta virus. 

Some studies have proposed the following symptoms that you may experience:

• Dry cough
• Fever
• Tiredness
• Aches and pains
• Skin rashes
• Toes and fingers discoloration
• Sore throat
• Conjunctivitis
• Loss of taste and smell
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Chest pain
• Breathlessness
• Speech loss

If you get infected with the Delta plus variant, you may also experience stomach ache, nausea, appetite loss, vomiting, joint pains, hearing impairment, etc.

Is Vaccination Effective Against Delta Variant Also?

According to the ministry of health and family welfare, India has administered over 357 million doses of vaccine so far. The two Indian vaccines (covisheild and covaxin) may be less effective against the Delta plus virus. Reports also say that this new variant may bypass your immunity produced by both vaccines. Therefore, if you have been vaccinated, you may have chances to get infected by the Delta plus virus and undergo serious illness.

Expert opinions say that COVID-19 is an RNA virus. It tends to undergo fast mutations. Therefore, specific vaccination against the delta variant needs to be synthesized and rolled out immediately.

What are the Possibilities of Delta Plus to Spark the Third Wave?

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), a third wave may occur. And Delta plus virus may be one of its reasons. The scale and the timing of the third wave cannot be predicted. But, it is said that this wave may not be as devastating as the second wave. But there is a possibility that it can surpass your vaccine immunity. In medical terms, it is known as an immune escape. 

As multiple cases are seen in different states, it has become really necessary for you to follow the instructions given by the health ministry.

Easing in the lockdown guidelines in various states may increase the transmission of the virus. Also, it creates a possibility of a third wave in the country. 

How Dangerous is Delta Plus Virus?

Researchers say that it is called a variant of concern because of three reasons:

• Increased transmission
• Strongly bind to the receptors of lung cells.
• Less response to monoclonal antibody therapy (a therapy used to treat COVID patients).

Increased admissions, mortality, and morbidity (rate of disease in a population) are seen in the people affected with Delta plus virus.

Delta Plus Cases in India:

The prevalence of the Delta plus virus is still low in the country. Since many cases have not been detected, it is also considered a 'variant of interest.' Many experts are still researching to find out its severity.

Delta plus virus can be the cause of worry if we rush to reopen the economy. And people do not follow the COVID-19 safety protocols.

Epidemiologists (medicine experts dealing in possible control of diseases) say that we should increase the efforts to identify dangerous variants early so that the country does not have to pay much as it has in the second wave.

Delta plus variant in India have started to be detected. Certain states like Maharashtra, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh have been asked to take stringent containment measures where the Delta plus virus has put down its roots.