The Delta variant of COVID-19 has mutated to a new variant called Delta Plus, seen in Europe since March, said Niti Aayog member Dr VK Paul in a Health ministry briefing on Tuesday.

Talking about the Delta Plus variant of SARS-CoV-2, he said it had been around since March.

“This is a variant of interest but not yet one of concern. We have to assess its presence through INSACOG,” he stated.

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Paul said the Delta variant played a “major role” in the deadly second wave that plagued the country.

He added that the Delta Plus mutation of the Delta variant has been detected and submitted to the global data system. 

“It has been seen in Europe since March & was brought into public domain on June 13,” Paul said.

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The Niti Aayog member added that the government will “study and learn more” about this new variant. “As per data available in public domain, this variant nullifies the use of monoclonal antibody,” he said.