Little known about COVID-19 mutation, treatment won’t change: Docs in Chennai

“This new strain is replacing the earlier variant and this is probably more infectious. The single mutations that occur in amino acids of the virus are unlikely to make a significant change in the viral structure. That will only occur if there is a critical mutation or two or three associated mutations in the virus,” said Dr V Ramasubramanian, infectious disease specialist at Apollo Hospitals.

So far, there is no data or evidence to suggest that current treatment will not be effective on the new strain, said Dr Hariharan, Chief of Medicine, Stanley Medical Hospital. As the virus will continue to affect the lungs, the current treatment methodology will continue.

“Initial reports have only stated that there are more infections and that they continue to predominantly affect the lungs. We do not know if high-risk communities, like the elderly and those with pre-existing comorbid conditions, will be more at risk than usual,” he said.

Prevention remains to be the preferred approach, said the experts, adding that social distancing and the wearing of masks must continue. Dr Ramasubramanian added that initial reports suggested that any type of mask continues to be effective in preventing the spread of the disease.

The Health Department has identified seven people, who arrived from London after November 25, in Kancheepuram and their samples have been collected. All seven have been home quarantined and they will be closely monitored. So far 1,088 people had travelled from London to Tamil Nadu from November 25.

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