Filenews 11 November 2021
The full prevalence of the Delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues, as evidenced by the results of the sequencing of new strains, conducted by a specialized laboratory of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and a private laboratory in Cyprus, with which the Ministry of Health maintains a contract.
Specifically, the sequencing was successful in a total of 215 samples with sampling dates from September 24 to October 30, 2021. These are samples positive to the virus of people from all provinces. Delta mutation was detected in all 215 samples (B.1.617.2), while preliminary data show delta plus variant (AV.4.2) in two of them. A thorough genetic analysis will follow from the Laboratory of Biotechnology and Molecular Physiology of the University of Cyprus.
It is noted that for the period of October, 193 samples have been analyzed so far and identified as delta variant. Two of them (1%) were identified as a Delta plus sub-mutation.
The Ministry of Health remains vigilant and closely monitors the detection of new strains of the virus, so that in time it can take decisions to update the measures where and where necessary with the aim of preventing the uncontrolled spread of the virus in the community and the deterioration of epidemiological and hospital indicators.
