Covid: Delta sub-lineage found in Punjab

Karam Prakash

Tribune News Service

Patiala, August 30

The latest report over the Covid mutation has revealed the prevalence of sub-lineages of Delta variants — especially AY. 4 and AY. 12 — in Punjab.

Of 66 samples of Covid-19 patients, 64 had sub-lineages of Delta variants, as per the report. Though AY.12 sub-lineage is reportedly responsible for the ravages in Israel, the Health Department said there was no cause for concern.

The department explained AY.12 had not been classified as Delta Plus variant. Notably, AY.12 is a sub-lineage of the Delta variant (B.1.617.2).

Dr GB Singh, Director, Health and Family Welfare Department, said the samples were sent for genome sequencing in July, but the results came out a few days ago.

“There is no cause for concern as of now, because these are sub-lineages of Delta variants that are already present. Besides, the state has not witnessed any rise in number of cases, therefore, there is no need to worry. In Patiala, four samples were found positive for sub-lineage AY. 4. However, all have recovered,” he said.

Dr Rajesh Bhasker, nodal officer, said all districts where sub-lineages of Delta were detected had already been informed to keep tabs on cases.

He added the Health Department was prepared to battle a possible third wave. “Most of the preparations for the third wave have already been completed. Besides, paediatric wards for Covid have already been set up across the state.”