Union Health Ministry cautious and advises Maharashtra, Kerala and MP regarding Delta Plus variant of Covid-19

Union Health Ministry has cautioned and advised Maharashtra, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh regarding the Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 being found in some districts in these States. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan has communicated to these three states as this variant has been found in genome sequenced samples from Ratnagiri and Jalgaon Districts of Maharashtra, Palakkad and Pathanamhitta Districts of Kerala, and Bhopal and Shivpuri Districts of Madhya Pradesh. 

Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium - INSACOG is tasked with not just the whole genome sequencing but also for giving timely inputs on appropriate Public Health Response measures to be adopted by States and UTs. INSACOG has



informed that the Delta Plus Variant, currently a Variant of Concern. It has the characteristics of increased transmissibility, stronger binding to receptors of lung cells and potential reduction in monoclonal antibody response.

 

The Union Health Ministry has also advised Maharashtra, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh that the Public Health Response measures have to become more focused and effective. The States Chief Secretaries have been advised to take up immediate containment measures in the districts and clusters including preventing crowds and intermingling of people, widespread testing, prompt tracing as well as vaccine coverage on a priority basis.