According to scientists from the Indian Institute of Medical Sciences, the new "Delta Plus" strain of coronavirus is even more contagious than existing variants, Reuters reports.
The Delta Plus strain was first identified in India on June 11 of 2021.
It is a mutated strain of the "Delta" variant, B.1.617.2; in its structure, a mutation of the protein is found, also called the South African "Beta" strain.
Leading Indian virologist Shahid Jameel said K417N reduces the effectiveness of a monoclonal antibody treatment cocktail.
How common is the Delta Plus strain?
According to the latest data, the delta strain is already spreading in 11 countries worldwide. A total of 197 cases of infection have been reported, including: Great Britain - 36, Canada - 1, India - 8, Japan - 15, Nepal - 3, Poland - 9, Portugal - 22, Russia - 1, Switzerland - 18, Turkey - 1 and USA - 83.
The first and so far only death from Delta Plus strain has been reported in India.
Studies are being conducted in India and around the world to determine the efficacy of the coronavirus vaccine against the "Delta Plus" strain.
