The Centre on Tuesday said that the Delta variant with an additional mutation known as “Delta Plus” has been detected in the country, asserting that it is “a variant of interest”, not “a variant of concern”.
“Delta Plus is a variant of interest, but not a variant of concern. It has not yet been classified as a variant of concern, in which there is adverse consequence to humanity. As per data available in the public domain, this variant nullifies the use of monoclonal antibody. We will scientifically study and learn more about this variant,” NITI Aayog’s Member Health, Dr VK Paul, said at a Health Ministry press meet.
The new variant nullifies the use of monoclonal antibody, he informed, adding that the government will study and learn more about the variant.
“The new variant was found outside India and we have to found out its presence, spread and way of spread in the country. INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia) will keep a constant watch on the new variant…