The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia (INSACOG) has noted that the new Delta Plus variant (delta, B.1.617.2) is spreading and nearly 40 cases of the variant have been identified in three states - Maharashtra, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh. The variant has been tagged as a "Variant of Concern".

A Union Health Ministry statement said that out of over 45000 samples sequenced in the country, this variant has been sporadically detected in Maharashtra, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh, with nearly 40 cases identified thus far, but no significant increase in prevalence. 

Following the report of AY.1 variant by PHE, a retrospective analysis of samples was conducted which showed the first incidence of this lineage in a sample obtained from Maharashtra. 

These states have been advised by the government to increase surveillance and ensure adequate public health measures. As of June 18, 205 sequences of AY.1 lineage were identified across the world, with the USA and UK reporting more than half of the cases. The K417N mutation has been of interest. The resistance to monoclonal antibody cocktail might not suggest increased virulence, said the statement.

The ministry further stated that all Delta sub-lineages are to be treated as a VOC, while the properties of AY.1 are still under investigation. Cases with AY.1 have been detected mostly in nine countries from Europe, Asia, and America.

The Delta plus variant [B.1.617.2.1/ (AY.1)] is marked by the K417N mutation in the virus’ spike protein. K417N mutation is characterized by change of amino acid lysine (K) to asparagine (N) at the 417th position of the spike protein. Other Delta plus variants with other mutations also exist but AY.1 is the most well-known. A second clade has been identified in sequences uploaded to GISAID from the USA which has been designated AY.2. It is not detected in India yet.

The ministry added that states may have to improve their public health response by strengthening surveillance, increasing testing, doing rapid contact-tracing and vaccinating people on priority in defined geographies where AY.1 has been seen.

Source: ET Healthworld