In a recent twist, a new subvariant of the Delta variant of COVID19 called the ‘AY.4.2’was found in the UK that is said to be responsible for the rise in number of cases in that country. UK health authorities classified this new mutation of the Delta variant of COVID19 as a Variant Under Investigation (VUI). The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) made this classification after the Delta sub-lineage AY.4.2 showed an increased growth rate in the UK in recent months.
The same variant has now been found in India too. Around 17 samples of ‘AY.4.2’ have been identified from India. Seven samples of AY.4.2 were found in Andhra Pradesh, four in Kerala, two each in Karnataka and Telangana, and one each in Jammu & Kashmir and Maharashtra, according to data uploaded on GISAID, an open-access genomic database of Influenza viruses and the Coronavirus responsible for the COCID19 pandemic. The new variant has been detected in 1% of samples in Maharashtra.
WHAT IS AY.4.2?
AY.4.2 is a descendant of the Delta variant of COVID19. The Delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, was first identified in India in October 2020. The AY.4.2 sub-lineage contains 2 mutations in its spike protein — A222V and Y145H. The UKHSA gave Delta sub-lineage AY.4. the official name VUI-21OCT-01.
As per the cov-lineages.org (an international organization that tracks the activities of all COVID variants), UK accounts for 96% cases of AY.4.2, followed by Denmark and Germany at 1% each. It has also been reported in the US, Israel, and Russia. In Israel, an 11-year-old boy arriving from Europe was the carrier.
PROPERTIES OF AY.4.2
Potentially a marginally more contagious strain. It belongs to the same family of mutations that define the B.1.617.2, or Delta. There is no clear indication that it is considerably more transmissible than the Delta variant. It is not a big threat like Alpha and Delta variants. AY.4.2, dubbed “Delta Plus” and now named VUI-21OCT-01. It is now declared as the ‘Variant Under Investigation’ in the UK.
IS IT DANGEROUS?
As per current data available, AY.4.2 is still emerging and doesn’t appear to cause more severe diseases. In terms of COVID19 jabs, the sub-lineage does not render the vaccines currently deployed any less effective against it. As is the norm with any new VUI, countries are supposed to monitor AY.4.2 closely to better understand its properties. India too will closely watch over it. Even a small change in its mutation may be enough to cause a difference in the virus properties in some circumstances. This variant may cause a small increase in transmissibility that would not have a comparable impact. Having said that, more evidence is needed to know whether this is due to changes in the virus’ behavior or due to epidemiological conditions.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR INDIA?
The fact that it also possesses all other characteristics of its predecessor Delta, compels us to stay alarmed. With appropriate response measures and maintaining safety protocols, we may be able to avert any potential wave.
IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW COVID APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR:
Always maintain a physical distance and stay at home as much as possible, unless going for medical treatment or to getting urgent supplies. Wear masks when you are outside, and make sure the face mask is covering your nose & mouth. Frequently wash your hands with soap & water, or use an alcohol-based sanitizer, making sure the whole surface of the hands is covered
Avoid attending public functions, avoid social gatherings, and avoid group play Discuss, demonstrate, and reiterate the importance of COVID19 appropriate behavior with your children to keep them safe .
Complete the vaccination schedule at earliest. We hhave observed that even with delta variant, vaccine protects against severe disease. The way forward is to keep a close watch on its potential presence in the country and ensure an appropriate public health response.
The author is an infectious disease specialist, Fortis Hospitals, Mulund & Kalyan