Health authorities in the United Kingdom have detected two further strands with the same parent lineage as the Indian variant of coronavirus. These are being observed as separate Variants Under Investigation (VUIs). 

Public Health England reported that 400 cases of the B.1.617 variant, first identified in India, have been tracked. It further stated that the variant continues to remain a Variant Under Investigation, with no evidence thus far to indicate that it is more dangerous. PHE mentioned that though the further variants appear to be closely related, they have different genetic profiles and have been designated as separate VUIs. They are being tracked properly and public health action can be taken, as needed… (ET Healthworld – PTI, May 1, 2021)