What exactly is a variant?
Ever since the pandemic reached a global scale, it has affected most, if not all, humans on the planet. As such, there has been a race for an efficient yet affordable vaccine to be administered in order to achieve herd immunity before the situation becomes irreversible. However, despite the increased availability of vaccines in certain parts of the world, several variants have propped up, making it harder to overcome the virus.
Given enough time, viruses undergo “copying errors” or mutations. It is because of these mutations that variants of diseases come into being. Some variants are only temporary and disappear after a short amount of time, but some continue to persist for longer periods. Each of the COVID-19 variants has distinct characteristics and places of origin. The 4 main variants affecting the world are as follows:
B.1.1.7 (Alpha Variant):
First Detected: United Kingdom
Distinct Characteristics: Compared to the regular COVID-19 virus, the alpha variant drastically compromises one’s immune system.
B.1.351 (Beta Variant):
First Detected: South Africa
Distinct Characteristics: The beta variant is more contagious and easier to spread compared to the original virus.
P.1 (Gamma Variant)
First Detected: Japan
Distinct Characteristics: The gamma variant is more resistant to vaccines and antibody treatments, making it harder for patients with the variant to recover.
B.1.617.2 (Delta Variant)
First Detected: India
Distinct Characteristics: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the delta variant is the “fastest and fittest” variant. Compared to previous mutations, it spreads faster and is more resistant to vaccines.
Significant Global Events
On May 6, 2021, India recorded close to 415,000 new cases in a single day, making it one of the hardest-hit countries by the pandemic. Many Indians who got the virus struggled to get treatment as hospitals across the country fought to accommodate the infected. Just 3 months before the surge, India was looking as if it was beating the pandemic, with cases falling nearly 90% from the peak of the first wave last year. The reasons for the sudden surge of cases can be attributed to the unpreparedness of the people and the government to deal with the sudden outbreak of the new delta variant.
Recently, Indonesia had also gone through a similar situation. Although they have kept their COVID-19 situation relatively under control, they are currently facing their second wave. Such can be attributed to both the appearance of the variants and the country's easing of restrictions.
Variant Situation in the Philippines
As of July 17, 2021, a total of 35 delta variant cases have been recorded in the country. With Metro Manila being placed GCQ once again, some fear that the new variants will drive a third wave of infections. Nevertheless, as observed from the other countries, we must never let our guard down and always remain prepared, regardless of the situation.
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