New double mutant COVID strain in some states | Fusion - WeRIndia

As per some sources in the Union Health Ministry, a new double mutant strain of COVID-19 has been found in around ten states in the country. They said that these mutations could be the reason for the constant upsurge in COVID cases in the county. However, they were not sure that these mutations are the only reason for the rising cases.

The double mutant COVID strain has been found in Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal.

Sources also said the UK variant of COVID-19 has been found in 18 states. Besides, COVID variants from South Africa and Brazil were also found in few districts across various states. 80 per cent of COVID-19 cases in Punjab are due to the UK variant.

60 per cent of COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra are due to double mutant variant. Yet, this variant has not been reported in Mumbai.

Delhi has both double mutant strain and UK variant of COVID-19. Experts suspect these both led to a sharp spike in the coronavirus cases in the national capital.

Some health experts said that the double mutant variant of COVID-19 may be less dangerous than estimated as many patients reported mild health issues.

Meanwhile, the government said that decision on emergency use for the approval of foreign-produced COVID-19 vaccines would be taken within three days from the submission of the application.

As the government decided to fast-track emergency approval for foreign-produced COVID-19 vaccines, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) issued guidelines for it.

These foreign vaccine manufacturers have to apply through their Indian subsidiary. If they do not have any local subsidiary, they have to apply through their authorized agents. They have to follow the bridging trial protocol as per the specifications and submit the data to CDSCO.

Their applications will be processed within three working days from the date of submission.

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