New Delhi: When two coronavirus variants (Delta and Omicron) combine, it is known as recombinant, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Maria Van Karkhov said on Sunday that after finding the first solid evidence of the compound virus. The WHO official insisted that “recombinant is something that was expected given the rapid rotation we saw in both omicron and delta.”Also read – Reduce Covishield Dose Gap from 12-16 to 8-16 weeks: NTAGI recommends Govt.
The statement came after, earlier this week, a recombinant covid strain was found from Israel that was a hybrid of Delta and Omicron. Also read – Corona cases are on the rise again: China reports first covid death in more than a year; Fawcett warns of lockdown in US
When what happens # COVID-19 The variables come together? Dr. mvankerkhove Explains pic.twitter.com/J59DpQaSHB
– World Health Organization (WHO) (HOWHO) March 19, 2022
Taking into account the severity and transmissibility of recombinants, Dr. Kerkhov instructed that WHO is tracking and studying mutations. “We have not seen any change in the epidemic with this recombinant. We saw no change in seriousness. But there are many studies going on on this subject. At this stage, testing and sequencing remain crucial, “she noted.
“Unfortunately, we expect to see recombinants, because the virus does just that – it changes over time. The WHO is aware of this because of our Technical Advisory Group for Virus Evolution. It’s on our radar, “she added.
What is Delta + Omicron recombinant virus?
Recombinant is a hybrid version of the coronavirus that combines the genes of the Delta AY.4 and Omicron BA.1 variants.
Citing Philippe Coulson of IHU Mediterranean Infection in Marseille, France, who is the lead author of the study, Mint reported that genetic recombination of the coronavirus occurs when two types infect the same host cells.
“During the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic, two or more species have co-transmitted over the same period and in the same geographical area … This has created opportunities for reunification between these two species.” Coles said,
So far, 17 confirmed cases of recombinant virus have been reported in the US and Europe.
