The World Health Organization is using the Greek alphabet for the variants of the virus. And the virus is mutating fast. We’re dealing with Delta now – and it’s more than enough. But scientists are also worried about what might come after.
The Delta variant was found in India, and it is the most dangerous one so far. It is now found in many countries, and everyone is at risk. Delta has increased transmissibility, it is more severe, and it can reduce the benefit of vaccines and treatments.
Delta is so worrying because of its transmissibility. Researchers found out that people infected with the Delta variant carry 1,260 times more virus compared to the original strain of virus.
The original coronavirus can take up to 7 days to cause symptoms, but with Delta, the story is different: the symptoms appear two to three days faster. This gives the immune system less time to respond and defend itself.
Delta comes with new mutations
The very bad news is that Delta is mutating further. A new report showed that “Delta Plus” made its appearance, a sub-lineage that carries additional mutation. India listed it back in June, but not WHO or the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. Delta Plus has been detected in more than 32 countries.
The Lambda variant – a new threat?
There is also the Lambda variant that’s lurking. It was first seen in Peru, and it does carry mutations that cause more severe symptoms – this one is still studied. It has been said that mutations resist the antibodies from the vaccine.
However, experts say that Lambda did not cause increased transmissibility, and vaccines can deal with it.
