New strain of Covid-19 not seen in India so far, no cause for concern: Dr VK Paul

Asserting that the new strain of Covid-19 which is being reported from several parts of the United Kingdom, has so far not been found in India, Dr VK Paul, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog on Tuesday assured the people that there was no cause for worry but a need to stay vigilant.

Addressing mediapersons, Paul said, “The new strain or mutation of Coronavirus seen in the United Kingdom has not been seen in India, so far.”

Talking of various concerns being raised around this mutated version of Coronavirus, he added, “As of now, it has no impact on the potential of the emerging vaccines being developed in our country and are available in other countries.”

He also stated that the new strain of COVID19 in the United Kingdom has increased transmissibility. “This mutation is not affecting the severity of the disease. Case fatality is not affected by this mutation,” he said.

Dr VK Paul has also reiterated sentiments echoed by Health Minister Harsh Vardhan and said that there was no cause for concern, no need to panic. “As for now, we need to stay vigilant,” he appealed to citizens.

Meanwhile, the screening of passengers who have arrived in Delhi before the flight ban, has continued at Delhi airport.

“All 199 British Airways passengers who arrived in Delhi today morning have tested negative,” said Genestrings Diagnostic Labs, COO, Chetan Kohli