RANCHI: At least 33% of the samples collected from
Jharkhand and sent for
genome sequencing by
Institute of Life Sciences in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, have showed the presence of the UK and the double mutant
strains of the coronavirus. The samples were sent from Ranchi and East Singhbhum, the two districts which continue to report the highest number of Covid cases during the second wave.
The UK strain is identified as B 1.1.7 while the double
mutant is identified as B 1.617. While the UK strain of the
virus was first found in European countries, the double mutant variant of the
Covid-19 virus first emerged in India and has spread to other countries like the USA, Germany and UK.
A statement issued by the state health department on Wednesday said 52 positive samples with cycle threshold (CT) value less than 25 were sent to Odisha from state-run labs for genome sequencing as a part of the Centre’s genomic surveillance programme.
Of 52 samples sent out, 39 were tested and 13 showed the presence of the mutant strains. “Nine samples -- eight from Ranchi and one from East Singhbhum -- were of the UK strain and four -- three from Ranchi and one from East Singhbhum-- had the double mutant strain,” said the release issued by the state health department.
When asked why such a small consignment of samples were sent for genome sequencing, state health secretary K K Soan said, “As per the SOP, a total of 5% of preserved samples with positive results and a CT value of less than 25 were to be sent. As we had a very less number of cases between January 1 and March 23, we sent out 52 samples.”
Soan, however, added that he has instructed the lab in-charge of the central laboratory in Jharkhand to send another batch of samples for genome sequencing with an aim to help surveillance and identification of any more strains, if any.
Rhe presence of mutant strains of the virus is a concern for health workers as they are said to have higher transmissibility and are also likely to evade the immune response of the body developed after exposure to the unmutated Covid-19 virus or vaccination. A senior official from the state surveillance unit said, “There was a possibility of the UK strain in our state, but the double variant can be risky as no one knows about its behavioural pattern. It can be highly infectious and cause severe symptoms.”
Meanwhile, health experts said the treatment protocol will remain same for all patients and the only way to battle this virus is strict implementation of appropriate Covid behaviour. “No one knows how the virus will behave after several mutations. Use of mask, sanitizers, social distancing and curbs to break the chain can only help in reducing the caseload,” said a doctor of community medicine and consultant associated with an international health agency.