Vaccines effective against Indian strain of coronavirus: WHO
New Delhi : The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Tuesday affirmed that vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics are effective against the Indian strain, also known as B.1.617 variant of COVID-19.
"Based on what WHO knows so far as per discussions with experts globally, vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics continue to be effective against B.1.617 variant (of COVID-19), which WHO has classified as a variant of concern," said WHO Representative to India Dr Roderico H Ofrin.
The strain first identified in India is believed to be of greater concern to the world as it spreads easily among humans.
The B.1.617 of the Covid-19 is the fourth variant to be designated as one of global concern that requires more tracking and analysis. The three others strains were first detected in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Brazil.
"B1617 virus variant that was first identified in India has been classified as a variant of interest by WHO," said Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, Technical lead COVID-19 at the WHO.
India is currently dealing with the deadly second wave of coronavirus, registering more than 3 lakh cases daily from past three weeks. The situation has led to shortage of medical oxygen and ICU beds in the nation.
