The delta variant of the coronavirus is troubling the world. The Union Health Ministry said that a new variant of the Delta variant, called Delta Plus, has surfaced in the country and is neutralizing monoclonal antibody therapy. However, the ministry also said that this variant is not of concern yet. NITI Aayog Member (Health) VK Pal said in the press conference that the new variant of the Delta variant responsible for the second wave has surfaced and it has been in Europe since March. Information about this became public only on 13 June.
The form of concern is one in which we know that increasing its prevalence has adverse effects for humanity. So far nothing is known about the Delta Plus form. Its impact and changes are being monitored through the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortium (INSACOG) system.
What is monoclonal antibody therapy
Monoclonal antibody treatment or therapy is being discussed a lot these days in the treatment of corona infection. Monoclonal antibody therapy uses a drug that mimics the body’s naturally made antibodies to fight infection.
Encouraging results of Novavax vaccine
Regarding the Novavax vaccine, Pal said the efficacy data are encouraging and publicly available data also indicate that it is safe and highly effective. “The relevance of this vaccine for India today is that it will be produced by the Serum Institute of India,” he said. He expressed hope that Serum Institute will start testing it on children as well.