88% of genome sequencing samples test positive for Delta, says study

JAIPUR: Almost a month after genome sequencing was started at the SMS Medical College, the microbiologists have so far examined 240 samples of Covid-19. As per their investigation and study, 88% were Delta variant, while no Delta plus variant has been found so far.
TOI on Friday spoke to the doctors and authorities to know how the genome sequencing centre at the SMS is facilitating in studying the various variants of the Covid-19.
“We have so far examined 240 samples which were also from various other parts of the state. Out of these, 88% of our samples were Delta variant, while no Delta plus have been found so far, “said Dr Sudhir Bhandari, principal and controller, SMS Medical College.
Elaborating more on various other variants, Bhandari, said, “Out of these, we have found 7 of B.1 variant, one was of Alpha variant, two were Kappa variant, 213 were Delta variant and 17 were no variant of concern.”
He added that the genome sequencing centre is presently taking 60 samples per week and in later stage the number of samples per week would be increased. “We are targeting to have genome sequencing of at least 80 samples per week in the coming days with the enhanced infrastructure,” he added.
According to the figures available with the health department apart from this 737 samples were sent out of the state including some to NIV, Pune. “In these samples too, we found 666 samples for Delta variant which is 90% of the total samples and one Delta plus that was from Bikaner was only found,” said an officer.
Molecular Haematology lab to boost cancer treatment
Blood cancer treatment in the state is getting better as patients can now get the genetic mutations tests done at the state-of-the-art Molecular Haemotology lab in Sawai Man Singh Medical College. With this lab, patients and doctors would be able to know the idea on which genetic disorder has led to the blood cancer. Health minister Raghu Sharma on Friday said, “We have started a new test for haemophiliac patients for F-VIII inhibitors. These inhibitors develop in haemophiliac patients after continuous infusion of F-VIII. This test at present is not available anywhere in Rajasthan in the government sector and will prove to be a boon for haemophilic patients in their treatment and further care,” he added.