A new type of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 was discovered in Cyprus, in the eastern Mediterranean region, and it is currently called Deltacron, because it combines the properties of Delta (B.1.671.2) and Omicron (B). .1.1.529). The identification was made by Professor of the University of Cyprus and Head of the Laboratory of Biotechnology and Molecular Virology, Leondios Kostrikis. So far, the World Health Organization has not commented on the case.
According to Bloomberg, Kostrikis and his team found 25 cases of the Deltacron variant. At the moment, it is not yet possible to determine if there are more cases of the novel coronavirus and what the public health effects of its spread will be.
“We will see in the future whether this strain is more pathogenic or contagious or whether it will triumph” against the two dominant strains – Delta and Micron -, the scientist commented. However, Kostrikis realizes that Ômicron should remain prevalent worldwide, regardless of Deltacron.
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After discovering the new variant, the Cypriot researchers submitted details of the discovery to an international database that tracks the evolution of the coronavirus, GISAID.
Is Deltacron the new alternative?
Regarding the origins of Deltacron, Kostrikis recalls that “there is currently a co-infection by Ômicron and Delta and we have discovered this strain which is a mixture of the two.” In other words, the origin of the new variant could be a patient with both strains, simultaneously. From the interaction of both in the affected organism, Deltacron emerged.
On the other hand, scientists speculate that the discovery of the variant is the result of contamination of samples in the laboratory, which would not represent a real risk in the Covid-19 pandemic. In a statement issued on Sunday (9), Kostrikis denied such a danger and defended the natural formation of the new strain.
In the coming weeks, the emergence and identification of new Deltacron cases should allow scientists to more accurately analyze the situation, including the risks.
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