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Double Mutant, Triple Mutant and Bengal Lineage – Indian COVID Variants Explained

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Published on August 12, 2021. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes

According to leading scientists, the deadly coronavirus pandemic is far from over. Why? Well, for starters, all viruses mutate over time as they replicate. This mutation happens due to an error in the RNA sequence of viruses during replication. Also, the speed at which the viruses mutate is different. While some mutate faster, others may take longer.

Just like any other virus, the novel coronavirus also mutated after the first wave into the double mutant, triple mutant and Bengal lineage. However, these are not the only mutations. As per reports, over 7000 individual mutations of the SARS-CoV-2 virus have been found in India so far. But the three new variants - double mutant, triple mutant and Bengal lineage, were majorly responsible for the rapid spread of COVID-19 infections in India during the second wave.

Double Mutant Coronavirus Variant

The double mutant coronavirus variant, also known as B.1.617, carries two mutations – E484Q and L452R. These two variants were earlier found separately in other coronavirus variants. However, they were detected together in India for the first time in Maharashtra in January 2021.

The E484Q and L452R mutations are present in the spike protein or S protein of the virus. In other words, the new mutations took place in the spike protein of the novel coronavirus. It is with the help of this spike protein that the virus gains entry into the host cell. Also, both these mutations evade the immune system and spread rapidly, especially the L452R mutation.

B.1.617 variant caused a rapid increase in coronavirus infections in India from April 2021, when the country was hit by the second wave. The virus has spread to other countries as well, such as Brazil, South Africa, the United States and Britain, and is now a major cause of concern around the world.

Triple Mutant Coronavirus Variant

The B.1.617 variant of the novel coronavirus was named triple mutant on detection of another mutation of interest, V383L. This is also present in the spike protein and was majorly found in Maharashtra. According to experts and accounting for the data collected from countries where V383L was detected before, this mutation is not of much concern.

As of now, there is no concrete evidence that the variant is more transmissible or deadlier than other variants. Although the triple mutant variant carries E484K mutation, it has not been confirmed if it is resistant to COVID-19 vaccines. Experts believe that even if a vaccinated person gets infected by this variant, vaccines will prevent serious illness and hospitalisation.

New Bengal Covid-19 variant – Bengal Lineage or Bengal Strain

Also known as B.1.618, Bengal lineage or Bengal strain is reportedly a major mutation of the novel coronavirus. It can escape the immune system and lead to serious illness in the infected. The variant is characterised by E484K and has two omissions in spike protein –H146del and Y145del. It also has other modifications that are not associated with the spike protein. As per experts, this variant can infect even those who were infected by the novel coronavirus earlier. It can be dangerous for vaccinated people as well.

Risks of India’s New Covid-19 Variants

The new COVID-19 variants have spread in more than 100 countries around the world, putting immense pressure on their healthcare systems. The mutated variants of coronavirus are more contagious and may even escape the antibodies in one’s body.

As per experts, the new variants can re-infect those who have recovered from COVID-19 already. However, the reinfections will be mild when compared to the primary infections. The same holds for vaccinated individuals as well. A major concern at this point is that if the virus keeps mutating and re-infecting people, it will be difficult to achieve herd immunity and control the spread.

Conclusion

Considering the uncertainty revolving around the novel coronavirus infection, it is important to good care of your health, include immune-boosting foods in your diet and stay covered with health insurance. When you have an adequate health plan for yourself and your loved ones, you can avail quality treatment any time. This will also save you from mental stress and financial woes. You can easily take health insurance in India online for your entire family. Also, if you have health insurance already but it isn’t sufficient, youcan increase the sum insured or opt for a coronavirus-specific plan, such as Corona Kavach or Corona Rakshak.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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