Gamma coronavirus variant detected in Russia

As the Coronavirus Delta variant continues to show its effect in Russia, new Gamma variant cases are on the rise in the country. The gamma variant, which was first found in Brazil, now seems to have made its way to Russia.

According to the Interfax news agency, the manufacturer of the EpiVacCorona vaccine claims to have detected some gamma variant cases in Russia.

However, the authorities have blamed the Delta variant and the slow rate of vaccinations for the surge in the cases. EpiVacCorona, the country’s second of four vaccines to be certified, was developed by the Vector Institute in Siberia. Sputnik V is Russia’s flagship vaccine.

The institute said the Delta and Gamma variants were categorised as “causing concern” because they spread more easily and can reduce the effectiveness of antibodies.

On the other hand, on Thursday alone, there were 24,471 new cases and 796 deaths in Russia.