High-level meeting conducted on new variants of Covid-19

The global apprehension surrounding a highly mutated coronavirus variant that has emerged on multiple continents has sparked discussions at a central high-level meeting. This variant has shown a notable prevalence in specific regions, prompting the need for a comprehensive analysis. Recent reports from various research centres have identified this novel strain, designated as BA.2.86. Despite its apparent rarity, researchers underscore its distinctiveness from other currently circulating variants.

On Monday, a significant meeting convened by the central government aimed to evaluate the current status of Covid-19 cases in the country. The emergence of a highly mutated coronavirus variant across three continents has garnered international attention, stimulating debates about its implications. This variant’s rapid transmission in certain areas has heightened concerns. Renowned as BA.2.86, this new lineage has been identified by several research institutions in the past week. Although it may appear infrequently, scientists emphasize its marked divergence from other prevailing variants.

The unexpected high-level meeting presided over by Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, PK Mishra, was convened in response to this situation. Attendees of the high-level meeting included Dr. Vinod Pal from NITI Aayog, Cabinet Secretary Rajeev Gauba, PMO Advisor Amit Khare, and other pertinent officials.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the EG.5 (Aris) variant has disseminated across more than 50 nations. Similarly, the BA.2.86 (Pirola) variant has been identified in four countries. Recent data indicated that 296,219 new Covid-19 cases have emerged worldwide within the past seven days, with only 223 new cases reported in India. The health secretary noted that the daily average of new Covid-19 cases within the country remains below 50.