Public Health: Scientists warn of new ‘Delta Plus’ COVID-19 variant

*British scientists have identified a new variant of the Coronavirus Delta variant, formally known as AY.4.2, called ‘Delta Plus’

*The US Food and Drug Administration approves the use of both Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines for COVID-19 booster shots

Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect

Health experts have blamed the Delta variant, a mutation of the original Coronavirus for the latest wave of COVID-19 cases in over 100 countries of the world.

ConsumerConnect gathered the British scientists are now voicing concerns about a “mutation of that mutation” that they worry could spread even more easily among the populace.

The new variant, formally known as AY.4.2, is also being called “Delta Plus.”

Scientists in the United Kingdom (UK) have identified the new mutation of the Delta variant of COVID-19.

Although the British health officials are watching the new variant closely, they say that it is too early to tell whether it poses a greater risk to public health than the original Delta variant.

Delta Plus accounts for about 6 percent of infections in the UK, according to report.

US FDA clears Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters

In related development and as expected, the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of both the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines for COVID-19 booster shots.

The FDA, previously, had given the greenlight to Pfizer booster shots.

The health regulatory agency also noted the Moderna booster should be administered at least six months after the second shot of the initial dose. The Johnson & Johnson booster should be given at least two months after the first shot.

The FDA also gave its approval for so-called “mix-and-match” boosters, saying someone vaccinated with one type of vaccine can receive a booster shot of another type.