Newly recognized Coronavirus variant AY.4.2 also known as “Delta Plus” has been related in approximately 6 percent of cases in the United Kingdom.
Studies suggest that AY.4.2 could be 10 percent more transmissible than the most common U.K. Delta variant AY.4 according to Francois Balloux, PhD, director at the University College London Genetics institute.
An infection increase of 10 percent could make the new variant the most infectious coronavirus that has so far emerged.
Experts are quick to point out the fact that a greater infection rate is not a matter of alarm.
“Well transmissible does not mean more dangerous, doesn’t mean more virulent,” explained Dr. Len Horovitz, pulmonary and internist specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York.
“Transmissibility does not equate with virulence, So we don’t know if these cases will be more serious.”
What are the symptoms of the new Coronavirus Variant
At present symptoms equated with the new Coronavirus are not dissimilar
The main symptoms to be on the alert for are:
1. A high temperature
2. A new and continuous cough
3. A loss or change in your sense of smell and taste
Health authorities advise to still maintain caution even if fully vaccinated by practicing social distancing and wearing a mask when this can not be maintained.